The death of a 10-year-old boy from meningitis has lead to a coroner criticising the Darlington Memorial Hospital for failing to identify that the boy was seriously ill.

William Cressey was taken to the hospital on 27th February 2005 on the advice of his GP after he had been unwell for several days.

The hospital had him under observation for 24 hours but then sent him home believing he was suffering from a viral infection, and refusing him antibiotics the inquest heard.

Not long after William arrived home he deteriorated and was taken back to the hospital by his mother.

William was suffering a lot of pain and said to one doctor "Please help me, if you don't help me I’m going to die" the inquest was told.

William suffered a huge seizure and went into a coma from which he never regained consciousness on the morning of 1st March 2005.

The coroner said in his verdict the death was from "natural causes to which a delay in giving antibiotic treatment for meningitis may have contributed."

The family of William is taking legal action against the hospital.

If you or those close to you feel you have suffered NHS negligence during treatment you could be entitled to compensation.

We deal with medical negligence claims and offer a no win no fee compensation claim service where you get to keep all the compensation if you win, and pay nothing if you lose.

The County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust has expressed its sympathy to the family but would not comment further due to the impending legal action.

CALL 0800 0322210 - or if preferred contact our discreet ONLINE CHAT LINE - or complete our enquiry form opposite.

The Claims Connection medical or clinical negligence - UK personal injury & disability compensation specialists. Medical Negligence compensation London,  NHS complaints Manchester, medical negligence Merseyside - dentist compensation claims - no win no fee claims - GP Negligence - nhs redress scheme - clinical negligence news