British Mother & Son Killed In ‘Tragic Accident’
28th November 2024
The inquest has taken place into the deaths of Kate Vokes, 54, and Archie Vokes, 22. They died in an avalanche in France. NEW
The accident took place in St Gervais last December and they were skiing off piste in a family group with an instructor.
They were part of a group of five people from the same family when the incident occurred.
The avalanche risk at the time was ‘moderate’ – Level 2 on a scale of 5.
The pair was described by relatives as “very experienced skiers who were familiar with that area”.
The joint inquest at Stockport Coroners Court concluded their deaths were accidental and caused by asphyxia.
The avalanche began at 2,300m and travelled 400m.
One theory was that it was set of by skiers or snowboarders above them, this was investigated but never proved.
Stockport Coroners Court heard that no action was to be taken by the French authorities and no-one would be prosecuted over the deaths.
“The view of the French authorities is that it appears this was a tragic accident,” the coroner said.
The coroner extended condolences to the family and said the two were “enjoying an activity that it’s clear they were extremely experienced at and gained a significant amount of enjoyment from”.
We reported on the tragedy at the time.
Archie Vokes was a personal trainer at Form in Manchester, and in 2022 had achieved his level 1 ski instructor qualification in Canada.
Kate Vokes was chair of the Oglesby Charitable Trust, deputy chair of the Royal Exchange Theatre and a trustee of charities Shared Health and Focused Care.
