Teacher, 24, dies in Middle East

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A 24-year-old teacher working in the Middle East has died after she was found collapsed in her apartment.

Emma Jones, from Caerphilly, taught English at the international school in Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates.

A post-mortem examination has not found the cause of death, her family said, and an inquest has been opened and adjourned in Cardiff.

Her mother, Louise Rowlands, 41, said: "It's difficult for us not knowing exactly what happened. I want answers."

Ms Jones, a sociology graduate, was last in the UK three months ago for a visit during holidays at the International School of Choueifat, where she taught eight-year-olds.

Ms Rowlands said: "Emma was so excited. She loved the kids and they loved her.

"She was so happy and just wanted to enjoy life."

She said the cause of her daughter's death remained a mystery.

"My daughter went out there alive and came back dead," she said.

A graduate in sociology, Ms Jones was teaching eight-year-olds at the school

A spokesman for the school, Neil Smooker, said: "Emma died unexpectedly in her apartment.

"A flatmate, on finding her collapsed, immediately called for help and attempted [to resuscitate her].

"However, sadly Emma passed away before ambulance personnel arrived at the scene. We are all in shock over Emma's death.

"She was well liked by her colleagues and the students. She was a vibrant and enthusiastic teacher who always strove to ensure her students achieved the best learning outcomes.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends."

The inquest was opened by Cardiff coroner Mary Hassell, who was told the cause of Emma's death was "unascertained".

A Foreign Office spokesman said: "I can confirm the death of a British national in Abu Dhabi. We are providing consular assistance to her family."