Grandmother killed in crash was 'heart of the family'

A grandmother who died in a car crash in Greater Manchester was "the heart of the family", her relatives have said.

Irene Marion Bull, 71, died in hospital three days after suffering serious injuries in the crash which happened on Lower Leigh Road, Westhoughton, Bolton.

She was described by her family as "strong, courageous and a force to be reckoned with".

"She fought many obstacles in her life but strength and love for her children kept her going," they said.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) previously said a car had been travelling towards Westhoughton at about 16:15 GMT on 15 December when it overtook a HGV and collided with a car travelling in the opposite direction.

A third vehicle then crashed into the back of the second car as it stopped.

The other people involved in the crash reported minor injuries, the force said.

Ms Bull's family said she was mother to two children, Paul and Lindsey, and grandmother to Callum and Connor "that she lived for as well as other family members that are all grieving her loss".

"We take comfort in the fact that she is now at peace and reunited with her much-loved mum Kathleen," they said.

"The loss we have experienced will never leave us. RIP Mum, you're now free from pain."

Officers are continuing to investigate the incident and appealed to anyone who witnessed the collision to contact them.

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