An inquest was due to take place today into the death of an 87-year-old Alzheimer’s patient from Heckmondwike, who died after suffering four per cent burns at a care home.

Violet Smith, a grandmother and former cricket club stewardess, was admitted to hospital in January 2008 after she was left on a commode of hot water by staff at the Charlton Centre for Alzheimer’s and Dementia, Carlinghow Hill, Batley.

She died in hospital two months later following major skin grafts and after developing a chest infection.

Nurse Andrea Jarrett-Garrick and two care assistants Danielle Schofield and Julie Atkinson were cleared of wilful neglect charges in February, but the care home’s insurers have admitted liability.

The inquest was due to be held at Huddersfield Magistrates’ Court this afternoon.