The Liberal Democrat group on the County Council have been shocked and saddened by the death of a family in Wheathampstead. Whilst the exact circumstances of the deaths of Stephanie Backler and Samantha Wolf remain unclear, what is clear is that a full independent investigation into these deaths is needed.

Stephen Giles-Medhurst, Liberal Democrat Deputy Group Leader said: ‘Initial reports suggest that the family was known to Adult Care Services and had an assessment in 1998 and contact in 2006 where they refused further offers of help. The circumstances of these sad deaths need to be independently investigated.’

Stephen Giles-Medhurst concluded: ‘Our thoughts go out to family and friends of Stephanie and Samantha, we will continue to press to get a proper review into what happened.’

ENDS