A family has begun a quest to find out why a 21-year-old law student died after a minor operation at a Blackburn hospital.

Saira Faruque, of Lomeshaye Road, Nelson, died following a routine sinus operation and her parents say questions remain unanswered about the circumstances surrounding her death.

More than 500 mourners packed the streets near her home to pay their last respects to Saira, and prayers were said at Nelson Mosque followed by burial at Walton Lane cemetery.

Bosses at Blackburn Royal Infirmary confirmed that an investigation was being launched into the tragic death.

A post mortem examination has already been carried out and the family are awaiting results. An inquest into the death is due to be held on December 11.

Doctors at Burnley General Hospital referred Saira, who was having trouble sleeping, to an ear nose and throat specialist at the Infirmary.

Saira died following the operation. After the procedure had been completed she was taken to the recovery room.

Her father, Mohammed Faruque, said he had been told her heart started beating abnormally and she had to be taken into the intensive care unit, where she later died.

Mr Faruque said, "She was so fit and healthy which is why we can't understand what has happened. We want answers.

"It would have helped if we had a sympathetic ear and a shoulder to cry on at such a tragic time but that didn't happen."

Mohammed added: "We will miss her incredible smile - everybody knew Saira for her smile and kind heart and that is how she will always be remembered."

A spokesman for East Lancashire Hospital's NHS Trust, said, "We are extremely sad about the tragic death of Miss Faruque.

"Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to Miss Faruques family at this difficult time. The Trust is undertaking an investigation relating to this matter."

Saira, a Manchester United fan and Leeds Metropolitan University law student, also leaves her mother Viqar-Un-Nisa, 46, and two brothers and three sisters.