A heartbreaking inquest has laid bare the tragic circumstances surrounding the death of an 83-year-old grandmother who drowned in her own home during the devastating Storm Babet, after being told no flood defences were available to protect her property.
Maureen Gilbert became trapped in her bungalow in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, as floodwaters from the River Rother surged to unprecedented levels on October 20th last year. The retired secretary's body was discovered by her own son the following day, submerged in water within her home of 40 years.
"We've Got Nothing for You"
The hearing at Chesterfield Coroner's Court heard how Mrs Gilbert had repeatedly expressed concerns about flooding to local authorities. Her son Paul Gilbert delivered devastating testimony, revealing his mother had been explicitly told: "We've got nothing for you" when she inquired about flood defence measures for her home.
"She was really concerned about the flooding," Mr Gilbert told the court. "She had rung the council on several occasions and asked for sandbags or something, but they said they didn't do that."
A Preventable Tragedy?
The inquest heard how emergency services faced impossible conditions during the storm, with fire crews unable to reach Mrs Gilbert's property due to the depth and ferocity of the floodwaters. Neighbours described the scene as resembling "a raging river" rather than a residential street.
Coroner Matthew Kewley heard evidence suggesting this wasn't the first flooding incident in the area, raising serious questions about preventative measures and emergency planning for vulnerable residents in flood-prone regions.
Systemic Failures Exposed
The tragedy has exposed glaring gaps in the UK's flood defence infrastructure and emergency response protocols for elderly and vulnerable residents. With climate change increasing the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, this case has highlighted the urgent need for improved protection measures.
Mrs Gilbert's family described her as a beloved mother and grandmother who cherished her independence. The investigation into her death continues as the community grapples with this preventable loss of life.
