Inquest opens into death of popular Mansfield teacher

An inquest has opened into the death of a Nottinghamshire cyclist who was involved in a fatal collision on a busy Mansfield road.
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Sarah Bland, a popular teacher from Mansfield is reported to have been out cycling, but was tragically involved in a collision with a car on March 6.

The popular textiles teacher at The Brunts Academy, was treated at the scene but died from her injuries not long afterwards.

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Opening the inquest, assistant Coroner Gordon Clow confirmed Miss Bland died from her injuries on March 6, 2021.

Floral tributes were left at the scene.Floral tributes were left at the scene.
Floral tributes were left at the scene.

Mr Clow said: "She was aged 49 at the time of her death and died on the westbound carriageway of Southwell Road West in Mansfield.

"Sarah Bland was identified by her partner on March 7 at Queen's Medical Centre.

"A post mortem examination has been carried out."

He added that the death is thought to have been caused by ‘trauma following a collision with a vehicle’.

Floral tributes were left at the scene from friends, relatives and colleagues.Floral tributes were left at the scene from friends, relatives and colleagues.
Floral tributes were left at the scene from friends, relatives and colleagues.
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In closing, he said: "I am therefore under a duty to open an inquest touching upon the death of Sarah Verona Bland.

"It only remains for me to express my condolences to Sarah Bland's family and friends for her passing."

The hearing was adjourned for further enquiries.

Floral tributes were placed at the scene of the crash and hundreds of comments poured in for the much-loved teacher.

Brunts principal Carl Atkin said Miss Bland would be remembered as ‘an extremely popular and respected’ member of staff.

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Paying tribute at the time, he said: “It is with great sadness that we have lost a much loved member of staff, Miss Sarah Bland, following a road traffic incident,”

"All of us are very shaken by this news.

"She was an extremely popular and respected member of staff who had dedicated over 11 years of her life to supporting our young people and ensuring that they fulfil their potential and go onto achieve great things.

"This news has had a huge impact on the entire school community and the messages of support have been overwhelming.

"Our thoughts and best wishes are with Sarah’s family and friends at this exceptionally difficult time.”

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