A Devon pensioner tragically passed away in hospital after being blown over by a gust of wind while putting out a rubbish bin during Storm Darragh.
Harold Elford, who was born in Ivybridge and lived there up until his death, was taken to Derriford Hospital after his fall on December 7, 2024. The 93-year-old sadly passed away there three weeks later on December 28.
An inquest into his death was recently opened at Exeter Coroners Court. During the short hearing, it was confirmed Mr Elford was widowed and a retired paper mill dryer.
Senior coroner Philip Spinney said: “The circumstances of the death are that on December 7, Mr Elford was placing his bins for collection outside his property during stormy weather. He was blown to the ground by a gust of wind.
“He managed to alert neighbours and he was conveyed to Derriford Hospital. He developed bronchopneumonia during his admission. Despite treatment he sadly passed away in hospital.”
The medical cause of his death given was bronchopneumonia caused by a fall resulting in polytrauma and prolonged immobility. A significant contributory factor was advanced frailty and heart disease.
The inquest was adjourned for a full hearing to be held at a later date.
Storm Darragh brought very strong winds to western parts of England and Wales on December 6 and 7. The Met Office issued a red warning for wind covering West Wales and both coasts of the Bristol Channel, with winds gusting at 69mph to 81mph, or higher, in these areas.
It also brought heavy rain to western areas. The highest gusts were 96mph at Berry Head, Devon. Berry Head recorded its highest December gust speed on record – a 30-year record length.