The family of the woman who died as a result of her injuries following a crash in Royton today (December 23) have paid tribute to her.

Heather Smedley, 53, was involved in a crash with a police vehicle which was pursuing a suspected stolen car at around 10am this morning.

Police said she was taken to hospital for treatment of serious injuries, but died a short time later despite the attempts of emergency service personnel.

Now, her family have paid tribute to her in a statement, saying: "To the most wonderful mother to Benjamin, Olivia and Jamie, daughter to Hilda and Fred, sister, friend, and wife to Damian.

"The world was a much better place with you in it.

"Our mum was the most kind, gentle, beautiful soul inside and out. She faced all of life’s challenges with her beautiful smile, and her bravery and courage never wavered.

"We could not have asked for a better role model growing up, giving everything, she had to all of those she loved, and always supporting those around her.

READ MORE: Woman dies following police car crash in Heyside, Oldham

"She was the glue that held our family together. Her resilience and kindness inspired us all to be better.

"She had the greatest sense of humour and contagious laugh that we will miss every single day.

"You were too good for this world Mum, there will be a hole in our hearts forever."

Her family have asked for privacy while they grieve their loss.

A GMP statement reads: “At around 10am today (Friday 23 December 2022), police officers pursued a suspected stolen vehicle and engaged in short pursuit as a result.

“A short time later a road traffic collision occurred involving a police vehicle and a woman, aged 53, was taken to hospital for treatment to serious injuries, but sadly died a short time later despite the best attempts of emergency service personnel.”

Chris Bowen, chief superintendent of GMP’s Oldham district said: “Our sincere thoughts and condolences go to the family and friends of the woman that has sadly passed.

“We understand that the public are concerned by incidents of this nature.

“In-line with normal procedure, referrals have been made to GMP’s Professional Standards Branch and the Independent Office for Police Conduct. 

“Investigations like this often result in road closures which can cause significant disruption and we thank the local community and road users for their patience.”

The incident led to North West Air Ambulance attending this morning.

Before noon, the service said: “We can confirm that the North West Air Ambulance Charity was called to an incident in Oldham on the 23rd of December, and H72 responded. We have no further information at this time.”

Greater Manchester Police has asked anyone with information or dashcam footage to contact the service quoting incident log 969 of 23/12/2022.

Information can be reported online or by using the LiveChat function at www.gmp.police.uk. If you can't report online, call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.