POLICE have officially identified a mother-of-three who was killed in an early morning accident on her way to work.

Christine Duffy, aged 47, of Hillfield Drive, Tonge Moor, died after suffering serious injuries to her head and chest in the accident early yesterday in Crompton Way, Bolton.

Police say Mrs Duffy was crossing Crompton Way, close to its junction with Firwood Grove, when she was involved in an accident with the near-side of a passing car.

She was taken to the Royal Bolton Hospital, but died of her injuries.

Mrs Duffy lived with her partner and had step-children. She was also a grandmother.

One of her step-sons said today: "She was a fantastic lady who loved life."

The male driver of the black Vauxhall Carlton was travelling north along Crompton Way when the accident happened at 6.30am. He was unhurt, but suffered from shock.

It is believed Mrs Duffy was going to work.

Witnesses ran to the aid of the injured woman who lay unconscious in the road until paramedics arrived. She was treated at the scene but was found to be dead on arrival at the Royal Bolton Hospital.

Crompton Way was closed for two hours, from Thicketford Road to Firwood Grove, while accident investigators carried out their work.

Police are appealing for witnesses who saw the accident to contact them on 0161 856 5972.