"She was the rock of our family": Family's tribute to woman killed in police chase crash

Heartbroken relatives of a woman who was killed after a police chase ended in a crash in Wigan have paid tribute to the 'rock of the family'.

Kathleen Kirby died in a crash on Bolton Road yesterday afternoon (Monday). Police pursued a vehicle that 'failed to stop' to officers, before this vehicle crashed into another which then hit the victim, the Manchester Evening News understands.

Kathleen - aged in her 60s - was rushed to hospital from the scene with serious injuries but sadly died. A man was arrested and taken into custody.

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The incident has been referred to the GMP’s Professional Standards Branch and the Independent Office for Police Conduct. Kathleen's family, who have shared a picture and tribute of her with the Manchester Evening News, described her as a woman 'who took everyone under her wing'.

They said: "Our hearts our broken forever as today we lost our beloved Mum, Nanna, Sister, Partner, Aunty and best friend to so many. She took everyone under her wing, only ever seen the good in everyone.

"Kathleen would be there no matter what and was the rock of our family, she held everyone together with her strength and passion for life. She will never be forgotten and we will all make her proud in everything we do.

"Love you always and forever, Mum, Nanna, Partner and sister, always in our hearts."

Following the tragic news, Councillor Danny Fletcher, for Ashton-in-Makerfield South, said: "As councillor for Ashton-in-Makerfield I was extremely saddened to hear of the devastating accident in our town yesterday afternoon and sad passing of much loved local resident Kathleen. I would like to send my thoughts and prayers