Sandra Curran

I am Alison Mutch, Senior Coroner, for the Coroner Area of Greater Manchester South

On 14th July 2022 I commenced an investigation into the death of Sandra Curran. The investigation concluded on the 5th June 2023 and the conclusion was one of Accidental Death . The medical cause of death was 1a) Apshyxia; 1b) Drowning

On 4th July 2022, Sandra Curran was snorkelling in the sea adjacent to the beach in Bugibba Saint Paul’s in Malta. Concerns were raised about her appearing to be no longer moving. She was brought to the beach where she was unresponsive. An investigation in Malta found she had died from asphyxia as a consequence of drowning.

During the course of the inquest the evidence revealed matters giving rise to concern. In my opinion there is a risk that future deaths will occur unless action is taken. In the circumstances it is my statutory duty to report to you. The MATTERS OF CONCERN are as follows. The inquest heard the Mrs Curran had booked her holiday through a UK Tour operator. Mrs Curran was not a strong swimmer and that she was unaware of the risks that swimming/snorkelling in the sea off the coast of Malta could present. No warnings were given in the welcome information/briefing about the challenge the sea around the coast in Malta could present to a weak swimmer. Previously when she had snorkelled it had been in far easier conditions where the risks of strong currents had not been present. The evidence given by her family at the inquest was that had her tour operator highlighted the need for caution Mrs Curran would not have snorkelled alone in the area where she drowned. A more proactive approach by UK tour operators highlighting the risk of getting into difficulties and how to mitigate them would reduce the risk of further deaths in circumstances such as Mrs Curran’s.

In my opinion action should be taken to prevent future deaths and I believe you have the power to take such action.