Inquest opens for 10-year-old Poppy's tragic death

The inquest into the tragic death of 10-year-old Poppy Atkinson has begun in Cumbria. Poppy was struck by a car while attending a football training session at Kendal Rugby Union Football Club on March 5th. She suffered critical head injuries and died shortly after the accident. Poppy's funeral drew many people from her hometown of Kendal. Family, friends, and well-wishers paid their respects as the community turned out to honor her memory. Her parents, Ben and Clare, were present alongside her younger brother, Edward. During the inquest, which took place at Cumbria Coroner's Court, it was confirmed that Poppy was pronounced dead at the scene. The coroner, Kirsty Gomersal, stated that a post-mortem examination indicated head injuries as the cause of death. She expressed condolences to Poppy's family and mentioned that the inquest would be suspended due to ongoing police inquiries. A 40-year-old man from Lancaster has been arrested for dangerous driving in connection with the incident but has been released while investigations continue. Authorities believe the collision was not intentional and also resulted in injuries to an eight-year-old girl. During the funeral, many lined the streets to watch the procession. Poppy's coffin was decorated with an image of her with a football, symbolizing her dream of becoming a professional footballer for Manchester United. Her family shared how dedicated she was to the sport and how she touched many lives with her enthusiasm and spirit.