Matt Beard’s inquest was delayed on Thursday after his family objected to the scope of the hearing and raised concerns about alleged bullying linked to his departure from Burnley Women. The former Women’s Super League manager died aged 47 in September 2025, and the case will now continue with fresh evidence sought.
At Denbighshire Coroner’s Court, the family said Beard’s exit from Burnley in August 2025 contributed to a deterioration in his mental wellbeing. They asked for a witness from Burnley to give live evidence at the final inquest, rather than relying only on papers already before the court.
Debbie Beard Tells Court About Burnley
Debbie Beard told the court, “Matt left Burnley of his own accord because he wasn't happy there.” She added, “But they wouldn't allow him to move on [to another job]. I feel like they bullied him.”
She also said, “It's quite clear in the video Matt left, naming [Burnley chairman] Alan Pace as the instigator who put a stop to him talking to Leicester City.” Debbie said, “Matt left that video for a reason. He wanted that to be found and he wanted his voice heard.”
John Gittins Seeks More Evidence
Coroner John Gittins said he would invite Burnley to become an interested person for the inquest. He also said he would seek further evidence from the League Managers Association, after Beard was said to have consulted the group over concerns about his treatment at Burnley.
Gittins told the court, “You feel that when he left Burnley that was the catalyst for a decline in his mental health, and that the decline resulted in the events which led to his death,” before adding, “Having listened to members of the family today, bearing in mind the matters you've drawn my attention, I will invite Burnley FC to become an interested person for the inquest. Whether they choose to accept that request is a matter for them.”
Video And Written Statements
The evidence already gathered includes statements from Beard’s agent and GP, along with material provided by Burnley and Leicester City Women. Gittins said, “You have made very clear to me that in this particular instance you want that [video] in the public domain.” He added, “That video is the best evidence I may have of an intention to harm himself.”
Beard’s record at Liverpool remains part of his football legacy: across two spells, he won two WSL titles and one Championship trophy. The delay means the inquest will now return with the Burnley evidence issue still at its center, and with the court weighing whether the video and live testimony become part of the public record.
