VIEWS are being sought on people's experiences of inquests and the coroner system.

The independent review group on coroner services, appointed by the Home Office, is visiting Wiltshire on Friday, October 25.

It wants to hear from both groups or individuals with experience of inquests.

Tom Luce, the review group's chairman, said: "The coroner system has existed more or less unchanged for centuries. Everyone recognises that it has strengths but there have been criticisms in recent years not least, for example, over organ retention.

"We are doing a fundamental review of the coroner system. We are looking at it afresh. It is not our job to look at individual cases or reopen inquests. But we want the fullest possible range of opinions on it. We would like to hear from anyone with a story to tell."

People wishing to participate in the fact finding mission should contact Elizabeth Shovelton at the Coroner Review secretariat.

Her telephone number is 0207 664 8948 or e-mail her at:

elizabethshovelton@coroners review.org.uk

The independent review group was appointed by the Home Office on July 26, 2001, to carry out a fundamental review of the coroner system.

The review has published a consultation document which is available on its website at www.coronersreview.org.uk

Alternatively a copy can be obtained from Ms Shovelton at the review secretariat.