Legal case possible after child's death

Leah Carney was born at the RSH in 2000 and forceps were used in her delivery. Her parents claim the trauma at birth worsened her disability, which was never diagnosed. In 2003 Leah died aged three at Telford's Princess Royal Hospital.

An inquest at Telford County Court yesterday heard that Leah's parents, Neil and Kathryn, of Ketley Bank, believed that the delivery of their daughter by ventouse extraction had contributed to the severity of her disability, which they said led to her death.

But recording a verdict of natural causes, Mr Michael Gwynne, coroner for Telford & Wrekin, said: "Due to her genetic condition she became immobile and then became susceptible to these illnesses.

"I believe that it's probable that Leah's death was as a result of a naturally occurring disease or event."

Doctor Nikola Ostojic, consultant pathologist, said the cause of death was acute bi-lateral broncho pneumonia.

Leah could not walk or talk and had characteristics including an A-symmetrical skull, but despite extensive tests doctors have been unable to diagnose her condition.

The couple's second child, Jade, two, was born with the same health conditions as Leah, which have also gone undiagnosed.

Doctor Michelle Mohajer, consultant obstetrician, agreed with other doctors' evidence that Leah "did not suffer any physical trauma during the ventouse delivery".

After the inquest, Mr and Mrs Carney said: "We are deeply saddened that the inquest does not agree that further investigation is required.

". . . We will be seeking further legal advice following today's verdict."

The couple said they had not yet filed a case against the hospital trust as they were awaiting yesterday's inquest verdict.

By Kirsty Marston