Inquest Concludes Following Beeston Flat Fire
Posted on 20 April 2026
An inquest took place on Monday 13 April 2026 into the death of Audrey Wilkinson, aged 88, following a fire at her flat in July last year.
Firefighters from West Bridgford, Stockhill and Highfields Fire Stations attended the fire at the property on Union Street, Beeston, following a call at 3.13pm on Saturday 12 July 2025. They rescued both Audrey and her dog from the property after finding them in the bedroom of the flat, however after spending three days in Nottingham City Hospital, Audrey sadly passed away.
The dog survived, thankfully, after being treated on scene with a Smokey Paws oxygen mask and by receiving CPR from a Police Officer.
Assistant Coroner Nathanael Hartley ruled that Audrey died from smoke inhalation injury because of a fire in her flat. He said: “Following an extensive fire investigation it was determined that the fire was caused accidentally by a naked flame.
“I would like to offer my very sincere condolences to everybody who knew Audrey – no doubt she is missed by those who loved her.”
Fire Investigator, Beth Pearson, said: “On behalf of Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, I send my deepest condolences to all who knew Audrey. This is a tragic incident, and our thoughts are with her family, friends, and neighbours.”
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