The family of Debra Hellon, a 65-year-old woman known as Debbie who tragically died after a fall at a pub have expressed their profound grief saying she will be “missed more than words can describe”.
The tragic incident happened at Thomas Rigby’s pub in Liverpool city centre on the evening of Saturday January 25. Debbie fell down the stairs at the pub on Dale Street and despite the pub staff’s efforts to perform CPR and an emergency response, she passed away in hospital on Monday, January 27.
An Irby resident, Debbie was employed in HR and was just three months shy of retirement, eagerly anticipating more time with loved ones. Her mother Pauline, sons Adam and Craig, partner Dave, brother Neil, and grandchildren survive her, all left devastated by the loss.
A family member paid touching homage earlier today, remarking: “We’re in pieces about it. She was the most loving, kind-hearted woman I’ve ever met. She was so funny and welcoming. Debbie was the best mum to her kids and so loving to her grandkids. She was always there if you needed a chat.”
In a heartfelt statement, Debbie’s family expressed their gratitude to those who had attempted to save her life: “We would like to thank the staff at Thomas Rigby’s, the couple who carried out first aid, the ambulance service and especially Sandra, Ailsa and Emily from the critical care unit at Aintree Hospital, who helped and cared for Debbie in her final days. Rest in peace, the lovely Debs. You will be missed more than words can describe. Love you millions.”
Market Town Taverns, the owner of Thomas Rigby’s, confirmed that their staff had called for an ambulance and performed CPR until the paramedics arrived. The pub company extended their “deepest sympathy” to Debbie’s loved ones, reports the Liverpool Echo.
A spokesperson told the ECHO: “On learning of the situation, our staff immediately called the ambulance and performed CPR until medics arrived. We were saddened to learn that the lady later died in hospital and all our staff send their condolences and deepest sympathy to her family and friends.”
The pub also mentioned that a “local authority investigation” into the incident is underway, although Liverpool City Council has yet to confirm this.