Tributes paid to woman, 82, who died after crash

Jean Hindmarch died after she was struck by a car on December 18

An 82-year-old woman has died after she was struck by a car a week before Christmas.

Jean Hindmarch was hit by a car on Monday, 18 December in Wrekenton, Gateshead and died four days later as a result of her injuries.

Her family called her a "beautiful person".

Northumbria Police have arrested a 56-year-old man on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and a 63-year-old woman on suspicion of aiding and abetting a dangerous driver.

In a tribute, Ms Hindmarch's daughter said: "Mam was well known and respected in the community. She was a very good person, she would put everyone in front of herself, especially her family.

“She was a beautiful person who was very caring, always putting others' needs before her own.

"She was loved by everyone who knew her because of her heart of gold.”

Appeal for witnesses

The crash took place at about 16:10 GMT on 18 December near Aldi on Easedale Gardens, in Wrekenton.

Northumbria Police arrived at the scene after receiving a report that a pedestrian had been struck by a grey Dacia Duster.

The driver of the car, a 56-year-old man, was arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

He has since been released on police bail.

A 63-year-old woman was also arrested on suspicion of aiding and abetting a dangerous driver. She has been released under investigation.

Sgt Dave Roberts case said: “This is absolutely not the outcome we wanted and our thoughts are with Jean’s family and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.

“A full investigation is under way to establish exactly what happened in the lead up to the collision."

The force is asking anyone who saw a grey Dacia Duster or Ms Hindmarch in the area at the time of the crash to come forward. She was wearing a pink coat at the time of the crash.