A woman has died after being struck by a police car that had been engaged in a chase.

Heather Smedley, 53, was hit by the police vehicle in Royton, near Oldham, Greater Manchester, on Friday morning.

She was taken to hospital, but died a short time later.

Greater Manchester Police said in a news release: “At around 10am today, officers pursued a suspected stolen vehicle and engaged in short pursuit as a result.

“A short time later a road traffic collision occurred involving a police vehicle and a woman, aged 53, was taken to hospital for treatment to serious injuries, but sadly died a short time later despite the best attempts of emergency service personnel.”

Mrs Smedley’s family today paid tribute, describing her as the “most kind, gentle, beautiful soul inside and out”.

In a statement, the family said: “To the most wonderful mother to Benjamin, Olivia and Jamie, daughter to Hilda and Fred, sister, friend, and wife to Damian.

“The world was a much better place with you in it.

“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.

“She had the greatest sense of humour and contagious laugh that we will miss every single day. You were too good for this world Mum, there will be a hole in our hearts forever.”

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Chris Bowen, Chief Superintendent of GMP’s Oldham district, said a referral had been made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) and its own professional standards branch.

He added: “Our sincere thoughts and condolences go to the family and friends of the woman that has sadly passed.

“We understand that the public are concerned by incidents of this nature.

“In line with normal procedure, referrals have been made to GMP’s Professional Standards Branch and the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

“Investigations like this often result in road closures which can cause significant disruption and we thank the local community and road users for their patience.”