‘So proud’ of community’s kind response
SUSAN’S family have said they are “proud” of the overwhelming response of the Rishton community following her death.
Her mum Annette also thanked police investigating the collision and liaising with the family as they tried to cope with shock and grief.
She spoke of the gut wrenching moment she realised something was badly wrong when Susan, who had popped to the shop on Boxing Day evening, did not come home. Just minutes later a police officer was breaking the news to her that her daughter had suffered catastrophic injuries and died.
She said: “She had been to the Coop to get some shopping for the children. She used to go about 6.30 but instead she went at 5.30. The Coop was shutting early because of Boxing Day. When you cross over the crossing it’s two doors away. Ten seconds later and she would have been home, she would have been here.”
The family said nearly 500 people attended Susan’s funeral last week, with the family given a police escort to the church and people lining the route as shops shut for a few hours as a mark of respect. A large number of local firms made a whole range of contributions.
Susan, who was a member of the Switch on Rishton committee, would sell raffle tickets and help with the tombola as part of a year-round fundraising effort for the village’s Christmas festivities. In recognition of this the group has organised collection buckets and fundraising nights for the family and there are also plans for a 12ft tree on High Street, with a dedication plaque to her. Annette added: “She would be really pleased with that and being remembered in that way. I feel humbled by it. I wouldn’t know how to start thanking them.”
Susan’s dad David said they are often stopped by people in the street offering support, adding: “I went down to the chip shop and a woman said ‘Is that your daughter who got knocked down?’ She just gave me £30 and a hug.”
Her sister Debbie Hudson said: “The house looks like a florist with all the flowers and cards we have got. It’s been crazy, we’re so proud of Rishton, we really are. It was a beautiful funeral and with the police escort they were so professional.
“Most people have been waiving charges and the funeral director has been amazing. It’s simple things that have made life that little bit easier.”