Teenage girl died from ecstasy toxicity after becoming unwell at home

A teenage girl who became unwell after taking MDMA died of ecstasy toxicity, an inquest has heard.

Lilly Jane McCarthy, 15, from Bradwell near Greater Yarmouth in Norfolk, was found unresponsive at a residential property on January 24.

Emergency services were called but Lilly died shortly after arriving at James Paget University Hospital.

An inquest at Norfolk Coroner's Court today heard the provisional cause of death was MDMA toxicity - the chemical term for ecstasy.

The hearing, which was adjourned, was told a full investigation would consider evidence from police, medical professionals and the teenager's family.

Two men have since been charged in connection with the supply of drugs.

Nathan Laffitte, of no fixed address, and Kian Lockett, 18, of King Street, Great Yarmouth, are accused of supplying MDMA to Lilly and another teenage girl.

The pair appeared at Norwich Crown Court, where prosecutors said further charges linked to Lilly's death were still under consideration pending post-mortem and toxicology results.

Both defendants were remanded in custody ahead of a provisional trial listed for July 27.

Opening the inquest, area coroner Robin Weyell confirmed Lilly was identified by staff at the mortuary at James Paget University Hospital.

Mr Weyell said the hearing's purpose was limited to confirming Lily's identity and the preliminary cause of death.

A full inquest will examine the circumstances surrounding her death.

Lilly's family previously paid tribute to her in a statement - describing her as a 'bright, happy and funny girl'.

They added: 'Our hearts are completely broken.

'Lilly was a bright, happy and funny girl who made a massive impact on everyone lucky enough to have her in their lives.'

'The loss we feel is the most extreme kind of loss that no family should ever have to endure and leaves a hole in our lives that can never be filled.'