A WOMAN died after being struck by a van while walking her dog in County Durham on Monday morning.

The 58-year-old suffered severe injuries when she was hit on Longfield Road, in Bishop Auckland, by the Mercedes Sprinter van at about 7.25am.

Despite surgery and a blood transfusion, the local woman was confirmed dead a short time later at the scene on South Church Industrial Estate
The driver of the van, a 52-year-old man, also from the town, was shocked but uninjured.

The victim’s dog escaped unharmed and no other vehicles were involved.
A spokeswoman for the North East Ambulance Service said: “We were called to the South Church Enterprise Park where a woman was knocked down by a van at 7.30am.

“A rapid response car attended and doctors performed an advanced surgical procedure and transfused blood at the scene but sadly she died.

“Our thoughts are with the family at this sad time.”

Police closed the road for about three hours in both directions at the Dovecot Hill junction following the collision.

Offering his condolences, the Mayor of Bishop Auckland councillor Lee Brownson said: "It's really sad news, especially at this time of year just a few days before Christmas.

"And although I didn't know her personally, my thoughts and prayers go out to her family."

A number of people also took to social media to pay their respects.

Writing on Facebook, Lynn McAlpine Keers said: "Just heartbreaking, cannot imagine the family's sorrow. Tragic."

Deborah Burton wrote: "My heart goes out to the family."

And Sarah Hodgson said: "Awful for everyone involved."

Police are now appealing for witnesses to the fatal road traffic collision.

The woman's name is expected to be released today (Tuesday, December 22) after all family members have been informed.

Anyone with information should call non-emergency 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555-111.

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