THE 79-year-old killed in a suspected drink-drive crash was walking home from a hotel she had worked at for 20 years when she was knocked down – just minutes away from her front door.
Tributes have today been paid to Mary Horsley, who had finished an evening shift at the Amethyst Hotel, in East Halton, when she was hurt as two cars collided.
Despite medics taking her to Hull Royal Infirmary, she did not survive the incident, which happened at about 9.30pm on Tuesday.
As reported on www.thisisgrimsby.co.uk, a 26-year-old man, who was driving a Ford Fiesta, and a 29-year-old Immingham woman, who was driving a Suzuki Swift, were involved in the crash.
Villagers believe the driver of the Suzuki spotted Mrs Horsley walking home and had stopped to offer her a lift when the collision happened. This has not been confirmed by police.
The Fiesta driver was arrested at the scene, between Scrub Lane and Swinster Lane, on suspicion of drink-driving. He had not been charged at the time of going to press.
Mrs Horsley, who is believed to have grown-up children living in the Grimsby area, had worked at the hotel for more than 20 years, washing pots and carrying out general duties.
Friends said she was a "lovely lady" with a "brilliant sense of humour", and floral tributes have been laid at the crash scene. Mr and Mrs Turner, who own the hotel, said Mrs Horsley's death has devastated them.
"Mary loved coming to work at the hotel; it gave her something to get out the house for," said Mrs Turner.
"On the night of the incident, she had just finished work and was walking back home – she only lived about 10 minutes away.
"We sometimes give her a lift if the weather is bad but often she refuses as the walk gives her some exercise.
"Mary was a very independent woman who got on with things quietly. Everyone knew who she was in the village."
According to the couple, Mary was an active member of the village's friendship club.
Mr Turner said: "The news is very upsetting, this should never have happened to Mary and she is already missed by so many people."
Staff at the Black Bull Inn, in East Halton, said Mary's death has left the village in mourning.
Damon Williams, 19, the son of the pub's owners, said: "I have lived here for 12 years now and I always saw Mary wandering around.
"This should never have happened to such a sweet and kind lady.
"I only wish now I said 'hello' to her more, I am sure residents will be in shock for some time."
Humberside Police are appealing for witness to the collision to call 101, quoting log number 604 of January 8.
Keep checking your Grimsby Telegraph and www.thisisgrimsby.co.uk for updates.
