THE father of a young mother who died after being hit by a car has spoken of the family’s devastation.

Pedestrian Vikki Tinkler, from Newton Aycliffe, was hit by a car on Stephenson Way in the town at about 8.35pm on Friday, October 24.

The 30-year-old suffered serious head and abdominal injuries and was rushed to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough, where she sadly died the following evening.

Today (Wednesday, October 29), Miss Tinkler’s father, Dez Tinkler, paid tribute to his daughter.

“As a family we are devastated,” he said. “We will try and stay strong for each other and for Vikki’s daughter, Hannah.

“We would ask that we be left alone at this awful time.”

News of Miss Tinkler’s death prompted an outpouring of emotional tributes on Facebook.

On Saturday, her daughter, Hannah Tinkler, posted: “RIP mam going to miss you soo much xx.”

Another friend, Sammy-Jo Pearson-Scanlon said: “I seriously can’t get my head round this what so ever I was only talking to you the other day – I just can’t get it into my head – RIP Vikki Tinkler – you will be missed loads hun – so young – it’s awful xx.”

Others expressed their condolences to Miss Tinkler’s family, including Mr Tinkler, her mother Lesley Tinkler, sister Annalise Tinkler and brother Dez Tinkler.

Nigel Allison posted: “There are just no words Dez Tinkler mate...why oh who??... why is it bad things always happen to good people?...can’t imagine what you all must be going through... thinking of you all at this very very sad time... absolutely devastating news.”

Police are appealing for any witnesses to the incident who have not already come forward to contact them by ringing 101.