A RETIRED canteen assistant who underwent surgery to remove a benign brain tumour never regained consciousness.

An inquest heard the operation had gone well until the final stages when the brain suddenly began to swell.

Consultant neuro-surgeon Mr Gareth Roberts said despite the extent of the swelling he had never given up hope for Mildred Bradshaw. But she eventually died of bronchopneumonia which was described as one of a number of dangers for anyone following surgery, especially someone effectively in a coma.

Mrs Bradshaw, of Avon Court, Burnley, underwent surgery at Royal Preston Hospital in May but was later transferred to Royal Blackburn hospital where she died in July.

The medical cause of death was given as bronchopneumonia due to swelling of the brain following the removal of a brain tumour.

Coroner Michael Singleton recorded a verdict that Mrs Bradshaw dies as the result of a recognised complication of essential surgery.