THE inquiry into how "Doctor Death" Harold Shipman was able to kill so many of his patients will be one of the many subjects which will be covered during a talk in Highworth.

Living with Mortality is a funeral information day which has been organised by the Oxford, Swindon and Gloucester Co-operative movement.

South Swindon MP Julia Drown will open the event which highlights the importance of the funeral trade and bereavement services.

A spokesman said: "This free event will be of interest to funeral professionals, doctors, coroners, bereavement councillors, public sector employees and other trade professionals.

"At this event, delegates will hear from key speakers on subjects including the Doctor Shipman inquiry.

"In addition, a panel of industry experts will answer questions on registration, crematorium procedure, benefits and funeral practices."

Shipman killed up to at least 15 patients in his early medical career as a doctor.

But that murder total rose to an estimated 250 people, the Shipman Inquiry revealed.

Chairman of the inquiry Dame Janet Smith said Shipman unlawfully killed three men at Pontefract General Infirmary (PGI) in the 1970s.

Dame Janet said the probable number the former Hyde GP killed at the hospital was "between 10 and 15 patients".

She said between 1971 and 1998, Shipman killed an estimated 250 people.

The talk is being held at the Wrag Barn Golf and Country Club on the outskirts near Highworth on Friday March 4.

For more information or order tickets then please phone 01865 256280.