THE inquest has opened into the death of a school crossing patrol woman found hanged at her home in Ramsbottom.

Maureen Gwyneth Milner, 56, of Cotswold Close, Ramsbottom, was already dead when emergency services arrived at the house on the afternoon of May 24.

Evidence of identification was given to deputy Bury district coroner Matthew Cox by Mrs Milner's husband, local government officer Roy Milner. The couple's grown-up family have been informed of the death.

Coroner's officer Geoff Cave told the hearing that paramedics called to the house certified death at the scene and it was not established how long Mrs Milner had been in the position she was found.

Police investigating the incident ruled out foul play or third party involvement. A post mortem examination was carried out on Mrs Milner, who was a crossing patrol lady at St Andrew's School in Ramsbottom.

The coroner adjourned the inquest pending the medical report and results of any further inquiries.