A GRIEVING family who are awaiting an inquest into the death of a relative have backed calls to keep a coroner's office in south Essex.

The family of Natalie Wade, 28, say they are horrified to discover plans to shut the corner's office in Hall Crescent, Hadleigh, and centralise it at Chelmsford.

Natalie, of Hedingham Place, Rochford, was killed as she crossed at a pedestrian crossing in Ashingdon Road, Rochford, in February, 2006.

The circumstances surrounding her death, just months before her wedding to partner Darren, are to be the subject of an inquest in May.

Natalie's mother Christine, who was injured in the same incident, and stepfather David Gutberlet, say the support of the coroner and staff in the former Hadleigh police station has been invaluable.

Natalie's aunt Brenda Gutberlet said: "My niece was tragically killed and we have had to use the coroner's office regularly. We are horrified to hear it may close.

"We believe it is wrong to centralise things at Chelmsford.

"It takes no account of the tremendous grief an unexpected death brings to people, and also the fact not everyone drives or has easy access to public transport.

"This is something we know all to well.

"My brother does not drive so he relies on buses or taxis from Rochford to get to Hadleigh."

At present, arrangements for inquests in Southend, Basildon, Castle Point and Rochford are dealt with in the office in Hall Crescent.

It acts as a local point of contact for families and funeral directors.

If centralised, inquests would still be held at the Southend courthouse, in Victoria Avenue, but the officers who adminisister them would be in Chelmsford.

Ms Gutberlet, of Rayleigh, Hockley and Rochford Methodist churches, added: "As a minister, I deal with families at inquests and know in these circumstances how they find it helpful to have the coroner's office nearby.

"They are so knowledgable, helpful and supportive and you can go to see them at any time."

Southend-based coroner Dr Peter Dean has spoken out against the proposal.

A decision on the transfer is due to be made by Essex County Council later this month.

John Jowers, Essex county councillor responsible for localism and planning, said: "The transfer of the coroner's officers was a Government decision, and we have to consider the most cost effective way of dealing with the new requirements.

"I understand there are problems in south Essex and I will be looking at the issue before any decision is made."