Care home operators are facing criminal prosecution over the death of a worker killed in a lift.

Joan Daws died when she became trapped while transporting a weighing chair at the Laleham care home in Central Parade, Herne Bay.

Now, KCRH Limited, which ran the home at the time, has been charged with health and safety breaches relating to the safety of its staff and residents.

The tragedy happened on October 16, 2013.

Mrs Daws, 64, suffered traumatic asphyxia, brain damage and broken ribs.

She died five days later in hospital.

Canterbury City Council bosses are now taking legal action against KCRH Limited.

The case will be heard at Canterbury Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, December 20.

Council spokesman Celia Glynn-Williams said: “The alleged offences are based on evidence arising out of the investigation into the death of Mrs Daws in October 2013.

“Given that these are current court proceedings it is not appropriate for any further comment to be made.”