The grieving family of a 10-year-old girl killed after being hit by a car in Oldham has paid tribute to their "beautiful and happy little girl".

Police were called shortly after 5pm last Saturday (18 December) to reports of a collision involving two children and a red Land Rover Discovery on Coleridge Road.

Emergency services attended and a 10-year-old girl, who has been formally identified as Lily Rose Morris, was taken to hospital where she died a short time later.

Lily's family, who are being supported by specialist officers, have released the following tribute: "With a smile that could light up the world, Lily was a beautiful happy little girl, loved by everyone who knew her.

"Words cannot describe the hurt and pain we are feeling now our little princess has been taken from us.

"Lily can no longer continue to grow into the amazing and bubbly young lady that she was becoming - no longer able to be the caring big sister that she was.

"We are absolutely devastated over the loss of our Lily but we have been touched and overwhelmed by the support, kindness, and generosity of the community.

"We will all love you forever and be thinking of you always, our little poppet Lily."

Greater Manchester Police is still appealing for information as the investigation continues. 

Police Constable Nicola Heap, of GMP's Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: "Our thoughts are with Lily's family at this incredibly difficult time.

"Our investigation is very much in its early stages and we would urge members of the public to remain calm and allow officers to investigate this incident.

"Anyone who has dashcam footage from the area at the time of the incident, or may have any information about the red Land Rover Discovery involved in the collision, should please contact police on 0161 856 4741."

The second child involved in the collision was taken to hospital with an ankle and head injury and remains in a stable condition. 

A 42-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and driving under the influence. He has since been bailed pending further enquiries.

Anyone with any information - including dashcam or CCTV footage from the area at the time of the incident - is urged to contact GMP's Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 0161 856 4741 or via the LiveChat at www.gmp.police.uk quoting incident 3551 of 05/11/21.

Alternatively, details can be passed on anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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