JURORS wept after hearing a brother's tribute to his adored sister at the inquest into her death.

David Keenan said Olivia Rosemary Keenan – known as Rosie – had been a beloved member of his family known for her affectionate nature and sense of humour.

Jurors at Crook Coroners Court said that Rosie had died from natural causes at the end of a three-day inquest into her death.

The 58-year-old, who had Down’s Syndrome and dementia, died at the Middleton Lodge Care Home, near Darlington in March 2016.

She collapsed and died shortly after eating a chicken sandwich that was not prepared according to strict dietary guidelines, sparking suspicions that she may have choked on her food or that it otherwise contributed to her death.

However, pathologists Dr Mark Egan and Dr Peter Cooper told the inquest that there was no post-mortem evidence to suggest that the improperly prepared sandwich had caused Ms Keenan’s death.

Paying tribute to his sister, Mr Keenan said Rosie had lived a full life and brought happiness to all who knew her. She was a Beatles fan with an enduring love of music and a "wicked and cheeky sense of humour."

He said: “Rosie embraced life, she had an infectious giggle and smile and was really fun to have around – people with Down’s Syndrome are really good at expressing their feelings and she would give you these great big bear hugs. Less appreciated were the sloppy kisses she would try to plant on everybody.”

Fondly recalling his sister’s role as a bridesmaid at his own wedding as he shared pictures of her with jurors, Mr Keenan said his sister had remained a close and valued member of his family until her death, adding: “She was a really lovely person who overcame many challenges and we were all really proud of her."