A FAMILY have paid tribute to a “devoted” grandmother after she was hit by a car outside a supermarket.
Rita Grimshaw, 81, died after being hit by a car at Silverlink Retail Park in North Shields, Tyne and Wear on December 22 last year.
Emergency services had raced to the scene after Rita was struck by a cream and black Renault Captur while crossing the road outside an M&S store just days before Christmas.
She was subsequently rushed to hospital but despite the best efforts of medical staff she sadly passed away the next day.
Her family have now paid a heartbreaking tribute to a “devoted mother and proud grandmother” of two children and five grandchildren.
They said Rita, who was a teacher for 30 years, was known for her “professionalism, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the children and families she supported”.
“Her family were at the heart of everything she did, and she approached each role she held with the same warmth, care, and sense of responsibility that defined her working life,” the tribute read.
“Rita will be remembered as a true pillar of the community, someone who gave generously of herself, supported others without hesitation, and made a lasting difference to so many people.
“Her loss is felt deeply by her family, friends, former pupils, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.”
Sergeant Greg Huntley, of Northumbria Police, said: “Our thoughts remain with Rita’s family and friends following her tragic death and we continue to support them in any way that we can.
“The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident is very much ongoing and I would urge anyone who has information which could assist us but has not yet come forward to please to do so.
“Your details could help us ascertain exactly what took place at the time Rita sustained her injuries and give her grieving family the answers they deserve.”
The force said that the driver of the Renault remained at the scene to assist with police enquiries.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information is urged to get in touch with the police.
