Coroner withholds name of dog walker mauled to death

A CORONER is refusing to release the name of a dog walker killed by her charges, despite a requirement to do so.

The 28-year-old woman died on Jan 12, during a frenzied attack by the animals at the Gravelly Hill beauty spot near Caterham in Surrey.

Surrey Police confirmed on Thursday it had closed its criminal investigation. Eight dogs, none of which were banned breeds, were seized at the scene and remain in custody. Forensic analysis was continuing, police said, but no prosecutions would be brought against individuals.

The Daily Telegraph can reveal that Surrey Coroner’s Court has refused to reveal the name of the woman, in contravention of the Chief Coroner’s guidance.

The coroner has so far rejected arguments made by this newspaper stressing the public interest and the principle of open justice surrounding inquests.

The court said the listing would be published on Monday, 24 hours before the hearing, because “the family do not give permission” for the name to be released.