Tributes have been paid to a grandmother killed in a hit-and-run in east Manchester.
The 74-year-old has been named locally as Margaret Bradbury. Described as 'the most lovely lady', she was much-loved in her community.
Friends, family and neighbours have been left devastated.
Mrs Bradbury died at the scene in Newton Heath after being hit by a Mercedes van on Saturday morning (November 21).
The driver - and a passenger - are believed to have run away following the smash on Droylsden Road, police said.
A 42-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. He has since been released under investigation.
Mrs Bradbury's loved ones were too upset to speak following the tragedy.
Karen Pearson Cantello, 53, who lives nearby, told the Manchester Evening News : "I knew her very well, probably for nearly 30 years.
"One of her daughters was in my class at school.
"Margaret went walking in Brookdale Park every single day without fail.
"Her grandchildren were the topic of conversation every day.
"She never missed church. She was a lovely, lovely woman, she really was."
Karen said Mrs Bradbury always took pride in her appearance, adding: "She was always dressed up very well, very made up. I'd be in the park in my scruffs and she was dressed lovely.
"A few years ago, she hurt her leg. She loved to wear high heels, but couldn't wear them for a bit. She went mad down the park, having to wear her flat shoes.
"It wasn't long before she was back in her high heels."
Speaking about the tragedy, Karen said: "I was late to the park, I'm usually there at the same time as Margaret.
"I was on my way out and my husband said there had been an accident and the road had been blocked off. I went out and saw police putting tape across the road.
"I didn't know it was Margaret, but I could see what had happened.
"I couldn't believe it, I still can't now. It's so sad."
Father Derek McCartney of Christ the King Church, where Mrs Bradbury was part of the congregation, said: "She was here every Sunday at 9am.
"She was always beautifully presented and a bit of a character.
"It’s come as a big shock that she’s gone under these circumstances. She was very well dressed and a nice lady. She was very well known by people, she was very well liked and well-regarded and one of the characters of the community.
"I think a lot of people will be shocked that she has passed away under these circumstances and concerned for her family at this time.
"I’ll remember her for her character and her sense of style, it’s nice to have people like that in a congregation."
One of Mrs Bradbury's old neighbours Katie Taylor, 38, said: "We lived next door to her for 14 years.
"She was just the most lovely lady. She was very active, she was always out for a walk and would always say 'hello'.
"She always made an effort. She worked in Marks & Spencer for many years before she retired.
"I just can't believe what's happened. I had heard the helicopter above, but then a friend rang me to tell me.
"I'm still in shock. My thoughts are with her family."
Dharmaretnam Chidhardhan, who runs Mini Mart, got to know Mrs Bradbury well through her daily visits.
He said she was a kind and 'unique' person.
He said: "It’s shocking. I couldn’t sleep last night.
"It’s a great loss. She was like a grandmother to me and my family. She asked to see pictures of the children and always had lovely words.
"She was a unique character. Very polite, very clever.
"She was an example to people, who showed love and kindness."
Staff at the shop left a card at the scene as neighbours lay flowers.
It read: "Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Rest in peace."
A neighbour said people living on the street had been left devastated by Mrs Bradbury’s death.
They said: "We’re all just so sad and shocked.
"She was a lovely lady, such a caring person. We’d always see her going for her paper, or in the park or going to Mass.
"We’re all just devastated.”
Police are appealing for witnesses to the crash, which happened at around 9.15am, to come forward.
Officers were seen inspecting a van at the scene in the hours following the incident.
Mrs Bradbury's loved ones are being supported by specialist officers.
Sergeant Brian Orr, of GMP's Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said on Saturday afternoon: "This is a tragic incident where a woman has sadly lost her life and our thoughts remain with her family at this difficult time.
"An investigation is underway and I would ask any witnesses or anyone with information to get in touch with us."
Anyone with dash cam footage is asked to call 0161 856 4741, quoting log 943 of November 12. Reports can also be made via Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
