THE family of a beloved Cumbrian dinner lady have paid tribute to her at an inquest into her death.

Carlisle-born Erica Bell died aged 44 on February 15, 2024. The single mum-of-two previously ran Bell's Barbers in the border city, before taking a job at Pennine Way Primary School in Harraby, where she was loved by staff and children alike. 

Addressing the coroner's court at Cockermouth on Tuesday, July 16, Erica's mother Heather said: "Erica always had time for everyone. She was caring and kind to all the children and staff at the school.

"Erica would go out with her friends on special occasions but also loved to spend time with her family. She was known as the karaoke queen.

"She was so well-liked and loved, and everyone doted on her. We will never be able to replace the gap she has left."

During the inquest, it was suggested that while Erica had financial worries and struggled with anxiety, she was looking forward to the future and had family holidays booked.

However, the inquest heard she was found dead at home in the early morning of February 15.

The coroner Kirsty Gomersal's conclusion was that the cause of death was hanging, with the quantity of alcohol found in her toxicology report cited as a potential reason for emotional instability and loss of critical judgement.

Speaking last month after a fundraising walk was organised by Erica's school, Lindsay Burnett, headteacher at Pennine Way, said: “Erica was a fantastic member of our team at school. She was caring to all our children, always remembering their likes and dislikes and making sure they were served with a smile and kindness.

“She was a supportive colleague with a brilliant sense of humour which we miss immensely. The school community wanted to remember Erica with a sponsored walk as she is thought of daily with fond memories."

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