Tributes paid to former teacher who died after being hit by car on Silverlink Retail Park

Emergency services were called to Silverlink Retail Park, near North Shields, shortly after 5pm on Monday, December 22, last year.

This followed a report that a woman had been struck by a cream and black Renault Captur car as she crossed the road outside the Marks and Spencer store.

The woman – 81-year-old former teacher Rita Grimshaw – was taken to hospital for treatment of her injuries but sadly died the following day.

The driver of the Captur remained at the scene following the incident to assist officers with their enquiries. An investigation into the collision remains ongoing by Northumbria Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU).

Rita’s family, in a heartfelt tribute to her, said: “Rita, who was born in Teesside and lived in Whitley Bay, dedicated more than 30 years of her life to teaching.

“Throughout her long and distinguished career, she was known for her professionalism, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the children and families she supported.

“Colleagues remember her as a calm and trusted presence someone who shaped countless young lives with patience, fairness, and integrity.

“Outside of her professional life, Rita was a devoted mother to her two children and a proud grandmother to five.

“Her family were at the heart of everything she did, and she approached each role she held with the same warmth, care, and sense of responsibility that defined her working life.

“In her youth, Rita was a keen dancer, and those who knew her say that her sense of energy and joy stayed with her throughout her life. She remained an active and respected figure in her local community, known for her kindness, reliability, and willingness to help others whenever she could.

“Rita will be remembered as a true pillar of the community, someone who gave generously of herself, supported others without hesitation, and made a lasting difference to so many people. Her loss is felt deeply by her family, friends, former pupils, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

“We would also like to express our sincere and heartfelt thanks to all those who helped at the scene, to the medical teams who provided care with compassion and professionalism, and to Northumbria Police for their continued support during this incredibly difficult time.

“Their kindness and dedication have meant more than words can express.”

Sergeant Greg Huntley, of Northumbria Police, said: “Our thoughts remain with Rita’s family and friends following her tragic death and we continue to support them in any way that we can.

“The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident is very much ongoing and I would urge anyone who has information which could assist us but has not yet come forward to please to do so.

“Your details could help us ascertain exactly what took place at the time Rita sustained her injuries and give her grieving family the answers they deserve.”

Witnesses or anyone with information should send Northumbria Police a DM on social media or use the live chat and report forms on the Force’s website. Anybody who is unable to make contact via the above ways should call 101. Please quote reference number NP-20251222-0752.