'Devoted' teacher hit by car just before Christmas
Family handoutThe family of a former teacher have paid tribute to her after she was hit by a car and died just before Christmas.
Rita Grimshaw, 81, who was born in Teesside and lived in Whitley Bay, was struck as she crossed the road outside the Marks and Spencer store at Silverlink Retail Park, North Shields, on 22 December.
Her family said she dedicated more than 30 years of her life to teaching and was known for her professionalism, compassion, and "unwavering commitment to the children and families she supported".
Northumbria Police said the driver stopped at the scene and to assist officers and that an investigation was ongoing.
The collision happened shortly after 17:00 BST and the mother of two and grandmother of five, was taken to hospital but died the following day.
In a statement her family said: "Rita will be remembered as a true pillar of the community, someone who gave generously of herself, supported others without hesitation, and made a lasting difference to so many people.
"Colleagues remember her as a calm and trusted presence someone who shaped countless young lives with patience, fairness, and integrity."
Her family said she was a keen dancer in her youth and her "sense of energy and joy stayed with her throughout her life".
