Duchess Sophie breaks silence as great-gran Helen Holland, 81, dies two weeks after being hit by royal escort | The Sun

DUCHESS Sophie has broken her silence and said she is "deeply saddened" to hear the great-gran hit by her royal escort has died.

Helen Holland, 81, tragically passed away two weeks after being struck at a junction in Earl's Court, West London.


The great-gran was left fighting for her life following the horror smash.

Her family told the BBC yesterday she fought "for her life for nearly two weeks… but irreversible damage to her brain finally ended the battle today".

This morning Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, broke her silence.

Buckingham Palace said the royal was deeply saddened to hear the tragic news, and that she sent her condolences to the great-gran's family.

Read more on UK news

‘Beautiful’ great-gran who was hit by Duchess Sophie’s royal escort dies

Family ‘pray for miracle’ as great-gran left in coma after hit by royal escort

A Palace spokesperson said: "The Duchess of Edinburgh is deeply saddened to hear that Helen Holland has passed away.

"Her Royal Highness's deepest condolences and sympathies go to all of Ms Holland's family."

It is understood the duchess will also be in touch with Helen's family privately.

Tributes have been pouring in for the 81-year-old, who is being remembered as "one of the kindest most joyful souls".

Most read in The Sun

IN DEMAND

Major BBC TV show has Phillip Schofield in its sights after his This Morning axe

PHIL US IN

This Morning bosses dramatically release new Phillip Schofield statement

PIERS MORGAN

Phillip Schofield is no evil monster – one vile hypocrite at ITV is much worse

CRASH FURY

Video that sparked riots shows 'cops chasing teens on bike' moments before crash

One grandchild said she was "taken before her time".

Helen's son yesterday said she had died after "suffering multiple broken bones and massive internal injuries" while using the "safe route of (a) pedestrian crossing".

Helen had been in London visiting her older sister at the time of the smash.

The police watchdog, The Independent Office for Police Conduct, had previously launched an investigation into the crash.

It said at the time, as part of its investigation CCTV from nearby properties and police body camera footage would be examined.

It added that cops who were on the scene would be interviewed.

Police have also appealed for witnesses to come forward.

Her son and daughter-in-law Martin and Lisa-Marie Holland previously told the BBC following the accident they were "shocked and sickened at her extensive injuries".

Read More on The Sun

Little-known TV licence rule could save you up to £159 a year

Woman left unable to talk properly after her new dentures arrive totally uneven

The Met Police's Special Escort Group provide armed escorts for Royal Family members, VIPs, protected members of the Government, visiting royals, heads of state and other visiting dignitaries.

It also provides armed vehicle escorts for valuable, hazardous and protected loads – and can include high-risk prisoners.




Source: Read Full Article

Previous post Virgin Orbit sold off for £29m in huge blow for Sir Richard Branson
Next post The simple booking hack that could save you money on Ryanair flights | The Sun