AN INQUEST will be opened later today into the death of woman who died following a fire at her home in Aldermaston.

Doreen Endean, 68, who lived at the Ravenswing Caravan Park, in Berkshire, between the south-east boundary of AWE Aldermaston and Pamber Heath, died following a fire at her home last Saturday.

Firefighters were called to the blaze at around 3am and the 68-year-old was taken to Basingstoke hospital but lost her fight for life on Sunday. The fire is not being treated as suspicious.

West Berkshire coroner, Paul Beecroft confirmed to The Gazette this morning that an inquest will be opened and adjourned later today. A date has not been set for the inquest.

Following the fire, Trevor Ferguson, deputy chief fire officer at Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We are deeply saddened to learn that despite the best efforts of the crews and paramedics at the scene, the lady died and our thoughts are with her family at this time.

“Our colleagues from Hampshire responded first, as part of our long-standing cross-border arrangements. Firefighters entered the smoke-logged property in breathing apparatus and rescued the occupant.”