POLICE after appealing for witnesses after a pensioner was killed in a horrific accident in front of shoppers and passers-by (Christina Qvistgaard writes).

The 76-year-old woman was in collision with a lorry carrying two diggers and was declared dead at the scene outside Woolworths in Strood High Street on Tuesday morning.

A spokesman from Woolworths said the company was full of praise for its staff who were quick to help. He added: "We can confirm that all members of staff have been offered counselling.

"Woolworths' thoughts and sympathies are with the victim's family and friends at this sad time."

The lorry driver, from HE Services in Strood, was said to be distraught. A spokesman from the company said: "The driver is obviously very shaken and we are trying to support him."

Fire brigade sub-officer Phillip Picton said: "The lady wasn't physically trapped. The lorry had passed over her."

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Alison Hollis at the Medway Crash Investigation Unit, telephone 01634 826055.