An investigation launched ten months ago into the circumstances around a Darlington patient wrongly declared dead is still ongoing, the North East Ambulance Service has confirmed.

On October 13, 2023, a woman was declared dead at her home by ambulance workers before taking her to Darlington Memorial Hospital.

The Northern Echo exclusively revealed that while at the hospital she showed signs of life. 

But, Durham Police confirmed days later that the woman in her 50s had sadly died.

The NEAS launched an investigation following the revelation and made an apology to the family stating that they were "deeply sorry" for any distress caused.

The Northern Echo contacted the service again this week to ask if there were any updates from the investigation and were informed that it is still ongoing.

A spokesperson said: "We have no further information at the moment."

An inquest into the circumstances surrounding the death is due soon to shed light on the incident.

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Andrew Hodge, Director of Paramedicine at North East Ambulance Service, previously said: "As soon as we were made aware of this incident, we opened an investigation and contacted the patient’s family.

"We are deeply sorry for the distress that this has caused them.  A full review of this incident is being undertaken and we are unable to comment any further at this stage.

"The colleagues involved are being supported appropriately and we will not be commenting further about any individuals at this point."