Family's tribute to 'devoted' grandmother who died in crash

The family of a 73-year-old grandmother who died following a collision on Hyde Road yesterday (Wednesday) have paid tribute to a "genuine, hardworking and "energetic" woman. 

Sonia Adams died in a horrific crash involving a black BMW 3351, a Red Kia Rio she was driving, a tree and a stationary Renault Clio parked against a kerb. 

She had sustained multiple injuries but was sadly pronounced dead at the scene in the Woodley area, despite the best efforts of paramedics. 

The crash happened at around 1.40pm on the busy road between Gee Cross and Stockport, which was subsequently closed for around eight hours.  

Paying tribute to Sonia, her devastated family has released a heartfelt statement through Greater Manchester Police. 

It read: "She was a genuine, hardworking and energetic 73-year-old – constantly raising money for charity, in particular Cystic Fibrosis as her granddaughter had the condition.

"She was also a member of rambler association and various other organisations and even did a paper round to keep active, having lost her partner of 20 years less than 18 months ago to a brain haemorrhage. 

“She was a devoted mother to Wesley and Tanya and grandmother to four children as well as her extended family of three children and nine grandchildren. 

“As an avid gardener and wildlife lover (and unquestionably a lover of all things cake! … she made a great trifle!!), she always put others before herself and didn’t want to sit back and relax in her retirement.

"She wanted to keep active and busy with her garden and had a zest for life that put others to shame. 

“We are all heartbroken that her life has been cut tragically short. She will be leaving a hole that can’t be filled."

The police investigation into the collision is still continuing. 

A 23-year-old man, who was driving the BMW, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and has since been released under investigation. 

Police say enquiries are ongoing to trace a second man - understood to be a passenger in the BMW - who left the scene before police arrived at the scene. 

Sergeant Andrew Page, of GMP's Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: "This was a tragic incident which sadly resulted in Sonia’s death, and we are doing everything we can to support her family at this incredibly difficult time. 

"Our thoughts are with Sonia’s family and friends as we continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this collision.

"This incident occurred on a busy road in broad daylight and I am confident that there are a number of witnesses who can help us with our investigation. I would urge anyone with any dash-cam footage or any useful information at all to please get in touch with police as soon as possible."

Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 4741, quoting 1511 of 26/02/20. Details can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.