Inquest opens into death of dearly missed Torquay teenager

An inquest as opened into the death of a Devon teenager who was found unresponsive in her bedroom at home. Mikelle Hardy Ingham, a 16-year-old pupil at Torquay Girls' Grammar School, died on June 16.

During the short hearing held recently at Exeter Coroner's Court, it was confirmed Mikelle was born in Barnstaple and lived in Torquay.

Senior coroner Philip Spinney said: "On the morning of June 16, Mikelle was discovered by her parents unresponsive in her bedroom. An ambulance and police were called but despite efforts she was pronounced dead at the scene.

"The cause of death given is venlafaxine toxicity."

Venlafaxine is an anti-depressant prescription medication. It’s used to treat depression and sometimes anxiety and panic attacks.

The inquest was adjourned for a full hearing to be held at a later date.

Following Mikelle's death, tributes were made in memory of the popular presenter with local radio station Palm Torbay.

Chloe Mcllwrath, head of Year 11 at Torquay Girls' Grammar School, said: "She was creative, witty and compassionate, with a love for literature, writing and presenting. She brought unique energy and fun to the classroom: we will all miss her terribly."

Jay Richards, managing director and licensee of Palm Torbay Radio, said: "In all my years of being in the broadcast industry working with young people, I have never come across a talent such as Mikelle had. She will be deeply missed and our thoughts are with her family and friends at this difficult time."

Mikelle had planned to return to the school’s sixth form in September and was keen to pursue her passion for music. She sat her last GCSE exam on June 14.