THE family of a young mother who died after being hit by a car as she crossed the road with her children have thanked the emergency services and strangers who rushed to help her.

Mother-of-two Shantelle Kirkup was using a pedestrian crossing on St Cuthbert’s Way, in Darlington, with her family when she was struck by a driver who did not slow down at the junction.

Shantelle’s son was also hit by the Ford Focus as they walked over the road in May last year. The pair received medical treatment at the scene, however 29-year-old Shantelle from Northallerton, died from her injuries.

In a statement released today, the Kirkup family have thanked everyone who has supported them during their ordeal.

The Northern Echo: Floral tributes left in the wake of Shantelle Kirkup's death in DarlingtonFloral tributes left in the wake of Shantelle Kirkup's death in Darlington

They said: “The staff of Durham Constabulary showed great compassion and professionalism throughout in helping our family navigate through the process.

“We would like to make a special mention also to the staff at James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough for their support and efforts on the day of the accident and especially the paediatric ward in the weeks after.

The statement continued: “We would also like to place on record our gratitude to the members of the public who witnessed the tragic accident and rushed to help.

“It is heartening to know that such tragic events can pull people together in support of an individual that they didn’t know.”

Stuart Levy, 37, of Rocket Street, Darlington, was sentenced to 64 months in prison and banned from driving for eight years after admitting causing death by dangerous driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

Teesside Crown Court heard last month how Levy had taken his prescribed methadone medication that day and was not wearing his glasses behind the wheel.