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Woman died of heatstroke climbing Yr Wyddfa, inquest hears

Chris DeardenBBC Wales, Caernarfon Coroners' Court
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Sophie Goodyer-Bird, from Birmingham, was coming down the mountain when she became unresponsive and died shortly afterwards

A 35-year-old woman died of heatstroke on Wales' highest mountain, an inquest has heard.

Sophie Goodyer-Bird, from Birmingham, was climbing Yr Wyddfa - also known as Snowdon - on 10 July, a few days after her birthday.

On Wednesday, an inquest opening at Caernarfon Coroner's Court heard Goodyer-Bird became increasingly tired while coming down the mountain.

Near the end of the walk, she became unresponsive, and was confirmed to have died shortly afterwards.

Coroner Kate Robertson said emergency services were called and attempted CPR, but were unable to revive her.

A provisional cause of death was given as exertional heat stroke.

The inquest was adjourned to a full hearing, which will take place at a later date.

Following her death, an online fundraiser was set up to raise money for her 12-year-old son.

Crowds at the top of Snowdon/Yr Wyddfa
The UK's third highest mountain is is popular with walkers

What are the signs of heatstroke?

  • Tiredness
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Feeling sick (nausea) or being sick (vomiting)
  • Excessive sweating and skin becoming pale and clammy (a change in skin colour can be harder to see on brown or black skin)
  • Cramps in the arms, legs and stomach
  • A high temperature
  • Being very thirsty
  • Feeling irritable
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