ELEANOR BARNFIELD DIES AFTER CRASH ON WAY TO HOSPITAL

Eleanor Barnfield died after her car struck a wall in Bridgend while she was trying to drive herself to hospital following an alleged stabbing. South Wales Police said officers responded to a collision on Coity Road at about 12.43pm on Monday, 19 October. Officers found that Barnfield had puncture wounds unrelated to the crash, according to the force. She died in hospital later that afternoon.

Barnfield, a mother of two, worked for Valleys to Coast housing association at Ger-y-Nant, a retirement village in Bridgend where the alleged attack took place. Eyewitnesses said she decided to drive to hospital after hearing that an ambulance would take a long time to arrive. Neighbours said she travelled about 300 yards before collapsing at the wheel and hitting the wall. Police arrested a 61-year-old man from Bridgend on suspicion of murder. Officers investigated the area around Ger-y-Nant.

In a tribute issued through South Wales Police, Barnfield’s family said: “Mum was the kindest, most loving bravest person in the world.” Her family also called her “our rock”. Chief Superintendent Jason Rees said detectives and specialist staff were investigating her death. He thanked residents for their patience and support, particularly those who had been displaced following the incident.