AN 86-year-old woman was killed when a hit-and-run driver ploughed into a group of people leaving a party.

Widow Betty Cooper, a mother-of-12, was one of three people struck by the car as she was getting into a taxi, shortly before 1am yesterday.

She was being helped into the taxi by her son and daughter-in-law after attending a wedding anniversary party at their home in Westbury Street, Thornaby, Teesside.

All three suffered leg and pelvic injuries and were taken to the University Hospital of North Tees, Stockton, where the pensioner later died.

Last night, her son Barry, 55, and his wife, Trisha, 52, were continuing to receive treatment for their injuries.

A family friend said: "Everyone is devastated. It had been a great night celebrating Barry and Trisha's wedding anniversary.

"Such a happy occasion has ended with an awful tragedy. The family cannot believe what has happened.

"Our only hope is that the driver of this car is caught soon and justice is done."

Police believe the car, possibly a green BMW, may belong to a local resident.

Yesterday, a spokesman for Stockton police urged people in the community to come forward with the name of anyone who has a car like the one described.

Detective Inspector Shane Sellars, who is leading the investigation, said: "This was a terribly tragic end to a happy family occasion.

"The driver of the car made no attempt to stop, leaving an elderly woman with fatal injuries and her son and daughter-in-law with serious injuries.

"I would appeal for anyone who knows the identification of the driver to come forward and speak to us in confidence."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact (01642) 302234.