Family die following campaign of intimidation

Police in Leicestershire confirmed last week that a mother and her disabled daughter, who died in a car accident in Leicestershire, had faced a sustained campaign of intimidation and bullying from a gang of youths.

A police spokesman said that Miss Pilkington, mother of 18-year old Francesca Pilkington, who was disabled, had reported “several incidents of anti-social behaviour” to the police force. 

Police believe that Miss Pilkington killed herself and her daughter.

They are not seeking anyone else in connection with the deaths.

However, friends and neighbours said that Francesca Pilkington, who had learning difficulties, was often teased and mocked because of her disability.

They claimed that youths pelted the family’s home with eggs and stones.

Mrs Pilkington was said to have been despairing about the intimidation.

A police spokesman said: “Tackling anti-social behaviour is a priority for the beat that covers Miss Pilkington’s home and we police the area with this very much in mind.”

He added that “all lines of inquiry” were being investigated into the case, but that no one else was being sought in connection to the deaths. 

He also added: “As a force, we are asking questions of ourselves by reviewing the incidents Fiona reported to us” and that all contacts with Miss Pilkington were being examined as part of the investigation for the coroner.