Locked-in syndrome appeal allowed

Jan 3 2013

The family of locked-in syndrome sufferer Tony Nicklinson has won permission to continue his right-to-die campaign by appealing against a High Court ruling that went against him.

Mr Nicklinson, 58, died a week after he lost his legal bid to end his life with a doctor's help.

The father of two had been refusing food and contracted pneumonia after he was left "crestfallen" by the court's decision.

He died at his home in Melksham, Wiltshire, surrounded by family on August 22 last year.

The family vowed to continue Mr Nicklinson's campaign, and it has been confirmed that the Court of Appeal has given permission for his widow Jane to bring an appeal against the High Court decision.

The appeal is being seen as an important test case on whether medical help can legally be provided to those seeking the right to die.