Woman arrested over 'murder' of sick daughter

The Times carried this tragic story today

A woman from East Sussex has been arrested on suspicion of murder over the death of her daughter, who had spent more than half her life bedridden with the debilitating disease ME.

Kay Gilderdale was arrested last week after the death of her daughter Lynn, 31, who was given a diagnosis of Myalgic Encephalopathy in 1992 and had required 24-hour care ever since.

Police were called to Mrs Gilderdale's bungalow in the village of Stonegate, near Tunbridge Wells, at 8.30am on Thursday. A spokeswoman for Sussex Police said: "A 54-year-old woman from Stonegate, arrested on suspicion of murder, has been interviewed and bailed to return on March 6."

Lynn Gilderdale had been suffering from ME, sometimes known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, since the age of 14. She had been unable to speak - communicating with her mother only via sign language - although she still had managed to campaign for a better understanding of her illness.

Her father, Richard, is a former inspector with Sussex Police who still works for the force in a civilian capacity.

The investigation into the young woman's death is being led by Sussex Police’s Major Crime Branch. Chief Inspector Heather Keating, the local commander, said: "This is a very tragic incident, but we are not looking for anyone else in connection with it."

A family tribute released today through Sussex Police described Mrs Gilderdale as a "totally dedicated mother" who was still determined to fight for recognition of a "life-destroying illness".

It said that Lynn Gilderdale had "fought long and hard for 17 years with immense bravery, enduring constant pain and sickness.

"Every system of her body was affected. She required 24 hour care that was provided by her totally dedicated mother, with continuous support from Lynn’s father."

The family said that Lynn had been admitted to hospital many times, sometimes for a period of several months, for life-threatening conditions.

The statement added: "Prior to her illness, which left her paralysed, unable to speak, eat or drink and until recently, with no memory, she was an active healthy teenager full of life’s dreams.

"She grew up in the Stonegate area, attending local schools and participating fully in her local community. She enjoyed sailing, swimming, cycling and was an accomplished musician.

"Her family praise and admire Lynn for her courage, which she showed to the end."

"She was a much-loved daughter, sister and granddaughter who despite her illness always gave love and support to others.

"Lynn’s family say her death will leave a massive void in their lives – and the love she gave so unreservedly, will be missed every minute of the day."