Nicola Bulley's family members have broken down in tears after they finally found out how she died.
Giving evidence at the inquest at County Hall in Preston today, Home Office pathologist Dr Alison Armour said it was likely that 45-year-old mother of two drowned after entering the River Wyre in January.
Her mother Dot and her sister Louise were seen crying in court as the pathologist's evidence was read out. Dot was consoled by the coroner's office manager.
Dr Armour said watery fluid and fragments of dirt found inside Ms Bulley's body were "typical features we see in cases of drowning".
She added that Nicola was alive when she entered the water and there was "no evidence" she was harmed.
Senior coroner for Lancashire Dr James Adeley asked: "At the time of her death she had no alcohol in her bloodstream?" to which Dr Armour replied: "That's my opinion."
The inquest also heard that just two breaths of water would have been a “lethal dose” for Ms Bulley.
Professor Michael Tipton said: “We estimate the temperature would have been around 3 to 5C (in the River Wyre), so there would be a particularly powerful cold-shock response.
“For somebody of Nicola’s size, it would have taken one or two breaths in of water to be a lethal dose.”
An earlier statement released on behalf of the family said they were "confident" that the inquest will "establish the true facts".
They are being represented by solicitor Terry Wilcox, of Hudgell Solicitors, and Sophie Cartwright KC, of Deans Court Chambers.
A spokesperson for the firm said: "Her family are hopeful, and confident, that the inquest process will establish the true facts, a clear timeline of what happened, and how Nicola died.
"Her family will not be making any comment until all evidence has been heard, and until the Coroner has delivered his conclusion."
A visible police presence was seen outside the inquest in Preston on Monday.
