Tribute to 'kind-hearted' runner who was hit by car

A marathon runner who died five days after being hit by a car while out training was "kind-hearted" and "always went above and beyond", his family have said.

Matthew Walker, 48, was one of two people struck by a vehicle in Moss Side, Manchester, at about 14:55 GMT on 8 March, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said.

He died from his injuries on 13 March. The other pedestrian, a 29-year-old woman, suffered minor injuries

A family tribute said: "Matthew led a very active life; running marathons and hiking for causes that were close to his heart and was, in fact, training for yet another marathon when he was taken from us."

"Matthew was a kind-hearted, loving man, who always went above and beyond for his family and friends with his passionate and protective nature to care, and was deeply loved by us all," they said.

"He was loved for his silly humour, kind acts and fun-loving nature and always having a smile on his face, which lit up every room he entered."

His family said he would be "missed beyond comprehension, as a son, brother, partner, stepfather and grandfather and as a close and dependable friend to the many people whose lives he touched".

"There will forever be a hole in the lives of everyone who knew him, that can never be filled," they added.

"We all love you Matthew, more than we can ever express in words, and we will miss you with all our hearts. The pain and loss that we all feel, will be felt forever."

In his work life Matthew was "highly respected and valued as a colleague". they said, adding that he "worked extremely hard at everything he did, and his career was going from strength to strength".

GMP said a car was driving along Princess Road when it collided with two pedestrians who were travelling in the opposite direction.

Detectives are appealing for anyone with information or CCTV, dashcam, doorbell or mobile phone footage to contact them.

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