Stafford Hospital misdiagnosis death prompts new inquest

Janet and Frank Robinson said they hoped the truth would come out in the new inquest into their son's death

The parents of a Leicestershire man who was misdiagnosed by hospital staff have said they are hoping for a "truthful and honest inquest" into his death.

John Moore-Robinson died in 2006, after Stafford Hospital staff failed to diagnose a ruptured spleen but said he had bruised ribs. He died hours later.

On Wednesday, the High Court ruled a new inquest could take place.

Opening the new hearing, Leicester coroner Catherine Mason said it was as if the first inquest "never happened".

It comes after Mr Moore-Robinson's family argued for a fresh hearing, following the narrative verdict of the original inquest, when new evidence came to light.

John Moore-Robinson bled to death when he was sent home by hospital staff with a ruptured spleen

After that verdict, it emerged an internal Staffordshire Hospital report indicated Mr Moore-Robinson's treatment could have been negligent, but this was not sent to the coroner of the first inquest.

Two members of staff in the Mid-Staffordshire Hospital Trust's legal department were investigated for suppressing information about the death, but later cleared.

'Let's have truth'

Mr Moore-Robinson, 20, from Coalville, had been taken to A&E at Stafford Hospital after falling off his bike on Cannock Chase.

He was discharged after staff diagnosed him with bruised ribs, but died within hours.

Speaking outside Leicester Coroner's Court, Mr Moore-Robinson's father Frank said: "After seven-and-a-half years, it takes its toll.

"But we've stuck in there so let's get cracking.

"As long as we get a fair hearing and a truthful and honest inquest, that's all we've asked for. Let's have the truth now."

The new inquest was adjourned to allow time for the coroner to gather all the evidence needed. Once that has been completed, a new date will be set.