A WOMAN whose death prompted a murder investigation died after she was hit on the head by a bottle, an inquest has heard.

Bride-to-be Holly Lambert, from Burnley, died after being found unresponsive at Ulverston's County Square on February 20.

After a long-running murder probe, police announced on Wednesday the investigation had resulted in one person being charged with affray.

An inquest into her death was opened at Cockermouth Coroner's Court on Thursday.

Coroner Dr Nicholas Shaw said Holly, 26, died at Furness General Hospital.

Opening the inquest, Dr Shaw said: "The brief circumstances are that it's thought Holly had been hit on the head by a bottle when she was in Ulverston and later collapsed and sadly died.

"Investigations are continuing from ourselves and the police."

Dr Shaw adjourned the inquest, with a full hearing due to take place on January 25. 

Lifelong Burnley FC fan Holly, who was living in Ulverston, was due to be married in August.

Following her death police launched a murder probe and arrested three people - two men and one woman - on suspicion of murder.

Nearly eight months on from her death, police said they were not charging those arrested with a murder and took no further action.

The woman, who has now been named as Rebecca Kearsley, 41, of Market Street in Ulverston, has been informed she faces no further action with respect to the offence she was initially arrested on suspicion of.

But according to police she was charged today with affray relating to alleged actions in the County Square area of Ulverston on the evening of Holly’s death.

She is due to appear in court on November 1.

In a touching tribute released after Holly's death, her family and partner said: "Holly was the life and soul of the party, lighting up every room she walked into.

"She had a big heart and loved everyone as everyone who met her loved her. 

"Holly was one of a kind and always made us laugh.

"She always had a story to tell.

"Holly will be deeply missed by all of her friends and family, especially mother Stephanie and brother Benjamin. 

"Holly was the most loving and caring person; she was the best person I know.

"Holly was my best friend, and we were so close for the three years we were together. 

"Holly and I were engaged to be married and were preparing to marry on 5 August 2023. I will miss her terribly every day. Holly I will miss you every day – Your Tigger."