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Robin Cook's Death Was Caused By Heart Failure

Posted on: Wednesday, 10 August 2005, 09:03 CDT

ROBIN Cook died from heart failure, it was confirmed yesterday. A Crown Office announcement ended speculation that a fall after the former foreign secretary collapsed while hillwalking with his wife in Sutherland might have caused his death.

The issue of the death certificate by the fiscal forTain and Dornoch cleared the way for the full details of the funeral service at St Giles'Cathedral in Edinburgh on Friday to be announced.

A post-mortem examination found Mr Cook, who was 59, died of hypertensive heart disease. The leading cause of illness and death from high blood pressure, it affects about seven out of every 1000 people.

Mr Cook's funeral will take place at 11am, and Fringe performers are to be banned from a stretch of the Royal Mile to prevent disruption. It is also understood that plans are being drawn up for a reception after the service at the City Chambers, where MrCookwas once a councillor.

The police had been concerned about public safety and disturbance resulting from the Fringe activities. The force is to suspend street performances for several hours and keep the area around the cathedral free of entertainment.

A police spokeswoman said: "We can't ban access for pedestrians but if there is nothing to see or do then that helps limit the numbers. It's not appropriate to have performers there and we are looking at a suspension of their activities in the area of the cathedral for several hours."

Jim Devine, a senior union official and close friend of Mr Cook, who is acting as spokesman for the family, said the service would be followed by a private burial.

"The family wishes the service to be a celebration of Robin's life which will be reflected in the contributions from family and friends, " he said.

The family has asked for no flowers, but for individual donations to go to the mental welfare charity, MIND.

The service will be conducted by Richard Holloway, the former Episcopal Bishop of Edinburgh. Gordon Brown, the chancellor, will deliver a eulogy, and Mr Cook's two sons will also contribute to the service.

So too will John McCririck, the racing commentator, and Madeleine Albright, the former US secretary of state, hopes to be present.

Aly Bain, the Shetland fiddler, will also take part.

Of Tony Blair's decision not to attend, Mr McCririck said: "It is contemptible that the prime minister cannot be bothered to sacrifice just 24 hours from his holiday to pay his, and the nation's, tribute to Robin."

In Livingston, where Mr Cook had been MP since 1983, flags flew at half-mast and condolence books were opened in council buildings.

In Edinburgh, civic leaders plan to consult the family on a suitable tribute such as a charity trust.

Hypertensive Heart Disease

High blood pressure (hypertension) is a major risk factor for developing heart disease. Over many years, it may damage the arteries, putting a strain on the heart.

You are more likely to suffer heart disease including angina, heart attack, stroke, dementia or kidney problems. The higher the pressure the greater the risk.

Treatment is with medication and modification of lifestyle, including stopping smoking, taking more exercise, weight reduction and reducing salt and alcohol intake.

Source: Herald, The; Glasgow (UK)

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