Family mourns ‘a special lady’

7:09pm Tuesday 2nd September 2008

A grandmother killed in a car crash which left her daughter fighting for life has been described as "a special lady" by her grieving family.

Margaret Slatter was in a silver Chrysler Neon which collided with a green Land Rover towing a horse box on Saturday, August 23.

The 74-year-old, who lived at Manor Farm in Kingham, died after the crash at the junction of the A361 and B4437 Charlbury Road at Shipton Down, near Shipton-under-Wychwood.

Tonight, her family paid tribute to Mrs Slatter and said their efforts were now focused on helping her 48-year-old daughter Diane recover from the serious injuries she suffered in the crash.

The family said: "Margaret was tragically killed on Saturday, August 23.

"Her precious daughter Diane was very seriously injured in the crash.

"Margaret was a caring wife to Robert, devoted mother to Susan, Julie and Diane. She was a warm and kind mother-in-law to Peter and Craig, and a much-loved grandmother to Luci, Henry and Jamie.

"She was such a special lady. Although we all miss her so much, our concern and thoughts are now for Diane."

Tonight, Oxford's John Radcliffe Hospital described Diane's condition as critical and life-threatening.

The family are well-known as long established residents in the west Oxfordshire village.

Son-in-law Peter Crudge, who lives at the nearby village of Churchill, said final arrangements had not yet been made for Mrs Slatter's funeral.

An inquest into her death has been formerly opened and adjourned at Oxford Coroner's Court. A date for the full inquest has not yet been set.

A 45-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. She has been bailed until Wednesday, October 15, while police carry out further investigations.