AN 84-YEAR-OLD woman choked to death on food at a care home Christmas party, an inquest heard.

Constance Margaret Gilham, a resident of Avon View Care Home in Loring Road, Christchurch, died at the East Dorset Sports and Social Club in Grange Road,Christchurch on December 16.

A Bournemouth inquest was told she had attended the party with fellow residents and staff.

Dorset Coroner Rachael Griffin heard Mrs Gilham had been unable to finish her meal and started to cough.

Her breathing then became shallow and she died at the scene.

She was formally identified by a member of staff from the care home.

A post mortem examination revealed Mrs Gilham died of choking and food aspiration.

The inquest, held at the coroner's court in Bournemouth Town Hall, was adjourned for further inquiries and will resume on July 14.