Woman, 83, seriously hurt in collision with Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s convoy

An 83-year-old woman has been seriously injured in a collision with a police motorcycle that was escorting the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

The accident happened in Richmond, southwest London, on Monday afternoon as the royal couple were on their way to Windsor.

The woman, named locally as Irene Mayor, was taken to hospital in a critical condition, the Metropolitan Police said.

Kensington Palace said William and Kate were “deeply concerned and saddened” by what happened and they are understood to have sent flowers.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating the circumstances of the collision which involved a marked motorcycle attached to the royalty and specialist protection command.

A witness told The Sun: “His bike hit her and she spun round, off her feet and fell badly on the floor.”

Her daughter Fiona told the newspaper the royal couple have offered to visit.

She added: “She’s got lots of injuries. They are just keeping her stable at the moment.”

The accident took place at 1.50pm on Monday when the Cambridges were travelling to a service at St George’s Chapel in Windsor to commemorate the Order of the Garter.

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An IOPC spokesman said the woman hurt in the collision “suffered serious injuries and was taken to a London hospital where she remains in a serious but stable condition”.

“In line with procedure, the Metropolitan Police Service referred the collision to the IOPC,” the spokesman added.

“Our staff attended the scene of the incident and after careful consideration, we have launched an independent investigation.

“The investigation is in its very early stages and the officer involved is assisting our enquiries as a witness.

“Our immediate thoughts are with the injured woman and her family and those affected by the incident.”

Kensington Palace said: “The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were deeply concerned and saddened to hear about the accident on Monday afternoon.

“Their Royal Highnesses have sent their very best wishes to Irene and her family and will stay in touch throughout every stage of her recovery.”

Giles Oakley, a neighbour who lives opposite Ms Mayor, said: “They’re a lovely family.

“It is very, very sad that Irene has been injured. She is a very sweet person and is very well liked in the street.”

Earlier this year, the Duke of Edinburgh surrendered his driving licence after a crash at Sandringham.

Philip, 98, flipped his Land Rover Freelander in January after colliding with a Kia as he pulled out onto the A149 in Norfolk.

(c) Sky News 2019: Woman, 83, seriously hurt in collision with Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s convoy