A mum and her teenage daughter have tragically died in a burger van whilst carrying out a "birthday surprise". Leah Churchill, 50, and Brooke Wanstall, 17, were found lifeless in the vehicle that they were redecorating for a relative, Tyla Wanstall.
Wales Online reports that the pair had suffered carbon monoxide poisoning from generator fumes while decorating the van in Kent on February 14. The mother and daughter were carrying out the work as a surprise for Tyla's 26th birthday.
Following the duo's untimely demise, Tyla has spoken of his family's devastation after losing his mum and sister. He said: "They were decking the van out inside in balloons and bunting as a birthday surprise for me, like my mum would do at home every year.
"I didn't even know they were going down there last night but she must have started the petrol generator up to keep warm without realising the danger."
The 26-year-old says the generator is used outside the van during working hours but kept inside overnight for security reasons. He says that he arrived at the wagon at about 8am to start work and was surprised to see his mum's car parked up outside.
Tyla added: "I opened the van door and and saw my mum and sister and for an instant thought they had fallen asleep. I smelt fumes but it just didn't register straight away, but it became obvious they were both dead.
"I called the police and ambulance but it was the firefighters who told me it was likely carbon monoxide poisoning. It's heartbreaking to think they spent their last few moments just trying to put a smile on my face."
Tyla paid tribute to the mum-of-four and his teenage sister following their passing. He said "She [Leah] was so kind and would do anything for anyone. She would take a homeless man in off the streets if she was allowed. Brooke was just a live-wire with a huge personality.
"Mum worked all over the place, mostly in hospitality, and used to run the Share and Coulter pub in Greenhill. She was helping me in the burger van a couple of days a week."
The 26-year-old says Brooke had just left Archbishop's School in Canterbury after completing her GCSEs. Tyla added: "She had her whole life in front of her. She did really well in her grades and had just started work as a carer, which she was really enjoying. She was also due to take her driving test next week."
Brooke's sister, Ocean, said: "She tried working in the van a couple of times but that definitely wasn't for her. Working as a carer was what put the spring in her step and the only thing she wanted to do."
Following the duo's demise, Tyla has issued a warning about the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning. He said: "Mum made a fatal mistake and we don't want this to happen to anyone else.
"Be aware of this thing, people. If you haven’t got a carbon monoxide alarm go and get one. It is a serious killer. I don’t know how we're ever going to get over this."
Wales Online confirmed that Kent Police have been contacted for comment on the situation.
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here .
