Asthma attack proved fatal for ‘loving’ Jessica

Jessica Joanne Charlton, of Laurel Drive, Wilton, died at Dewsbury and District Hospital on Sunday September 16 last year.

The Bruntcliffe School pupil was getting dressed so she could play outside when she began to struggle to breathe.

Her father Paul Charlton gave Jessica her inhalers but the attack continued, Kirklees Coroner’s Court heard.

An ambulance was called at around 11.15am and paramedics began to try and resuscitate her on the way to the hospital.

Emergency doctors at DDH continued CPR but Jessica was pronounced dead at 1pm, the court heard.

Jessica was diagnosed with asthma aged two but kept it under control with inhalers and regular check-ups.

In a statement, Mr Charlton said: “Jessica loved school and had lots of friends.

“She did well in school and always handed in homework on time, we were very proud of her.

“Jessica was a loving girl, like a mother hen.

“She has left a massive hole in our family and will be missed.”

Coroner Professor Paul Marks returned a verdict of natural causes.

After the inquest, Mr Charlton said he wanted to thank all the ambulance and hospital staff for their efforts in trying to save Jessica’s life.