A RECLUSIVE pensioner died alone in her flat months after refusing hospital treatment for suspected heart failure, an inquest heard.

Sonia Gillard’s decomposed remains were discovered by police at her bungalow in Redhill Drive on January 13 this year, along with unopened Christmas cards and letters, suggesting the 72-year-old had died sometime in December.

Coroner Sheriff Payne read evidence from pathologist David Parham, who was unable to establish a clear cause of death due to her body’s state, however he said the globular outline of her heart suggested she may have suffered heart failure.

Mr Payne said Mrs Gillard’s medical notes showed she had last been to see her GP in January 2012, and while there she suffered shortness of breath, dizziness and other symptoms leading staff to call an ambulance.

However she refused to go to the hospital, and later said she felt well.

Her family had a history of strokes and cerebral haemorrhages.

Mr Payne recorded a verdict of death by natural causes.

Mrs Gillard’s niece and next of kin Nicola Wilson said her aunt was shy and difficult to get to know, but stubborn and fiercely independent.