Oldham police crash: Tribute paid to Heather Smedley

A family has paid tribute to a "kind and gentle" mum-of-three who died after being hit by an unmarked police car.

The car was pursuing a different vehicle, suspected to have been stolen, when it collided with Heather Smedley's car in Royton, Oldham.

The 53-year-old was taken to hospital with serious injuries after the collision at about 10:00 GMT on Friday and died a short time later.

Her family said she was "the glue that held our family together".

In a statement the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said: "We understand that the police car had been pursuing a separate, suspected stolen vehicle prior to the collision.

"Our thoughts are with the woman's family and friends at this awful time and all those affected by this tragic incident.

"Our investigation will examine the circumstances leading up to the collision and whether police actions were in accordance with policies and procedures."

Paying tribute, Mrs Smedley's family said she was the "most wonderful mother" to Benjamin, Olivia and Jamie, and daughter to Hilda and Fred and wife to Damian.

They said "the world was a much better place" with her in it.

They added she was the most "kind, gentle, beautiful soul inside and out".

"She faced all of life's challenges with her beautiful smile, and her bravery and courage never wavered," they added.

"We could not have asked for a better role model growing up, giving everything she had to all of those she loved, and always supporting those around her.

"She was the glue that held our family together. Her resilience and kindness inspired us all to be better."

Greater Manchester Police Ch Supt Chris Bowen said his "sincere thoughts and condolences" were with Mrs Smedley's family and friends.

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