The jury at the inquest into the death of grandmother Susan Norman in a Looe landslide three years ago concluded that Cornwall Council should have known there was an immediate risk to life.

The inquest hard that the council had been given repeated warnings about the risks posed by drainage on the hillside where Mrs Norman died.

Speaking on behalf of Cornwall Council and CORMAC, Kate Kennally, Cornwall Council’s Chief Executive, apologised to Mrs Norman’s family and friends and expressed sincere condolences.

She said: ’Having heard the evidence and findings of the jury we recognise that there are a number of matters which require the attention of the Council and its staff.

’Clearly, given the amount of comment, the Council and CORMAC now need to consider the details carefully.

’However as court proceedings have already been lodged against the Council and CORMAC, it would not be appropriate to comment in more detail about what has been said today.’