A 10-year-old North Yorkshire girl who was attacked by her family’s XL bully dog died as a result of neck injuries, an inquest has heard.

North Yorkshire and York Assistant coroner Alison Norton told an inquest opening in Northallerton that Savannah Bentham suffered fatal injuries after she was attacked by her pet dog on November 1.

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Savannah, who was a pupil at West Heslerton Primary School, died as result of neck injuries at her home in East Heslerton.

The inquest was adjourned to a date to be confirmed. 

After the tragedy earlier this month, North Yorkshire Police said officers were called to the scene by Yorkshire Ambulance Service at around 4.15pm.

Despite the efforts of medical professionals and a member of the public who came to the family’s aid, Savannah died at the scene.

An investigation is ongoing and police have said one line of inquiry is the dog’s behaviour, to try to find out why it attacked.

Police said at the time that all indications suggested it was out of character, and that the girl and the pet had a close and loving relationship.

The force said the dog was identified as an XL bully and was put down by a vet.

A spokesman said the dog had been with the family for four years and had a Certificate of Exemption under new legislation. It had also been neutered.

In a statement issued by North Yorkshire Police after the incident, the family said: “We are utterly shocked and devastated by what happened to Savannah.

“We can’t believe we have lost our wonderful girl who we love so much.”