A former Liberal Democrat county councillor has been killed in what friends have described as a "tragic accident".
Beryl Healy, the former Mayor of Eastbourne and East Sussex County Councillor, passed away last night. She was 79.
Mrs Healy stood down from her post as county councillor for the Devonshire ward at the last election.
It is understood the 79-year-old was unloading shopping when her car ran her over in Pococks Road, Eastbourne, yesterday morning.
Builders working nearby and a passing taxi driver attempted to raise the Renault Dynamic with used pallets to free her.
Firefighters were called to the scene and were able to release Mrs Healy before she was flown to the Royal Sussex County Hospital by the Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance.
She later died from her injuries.
Colleagues have started to pay tribute to the popular former leader of Eastbourne Borough Council.
Former MP for Eastbourne Stephen Lloyd wrote on Facebook: "I am utterly disconsolate.
"Beryl Healy was a force of nature; a wonderful, wonderful woman and one of the best friends I have ever had throughout my political journey. I loved her dearly."
While Steve Wallis, who replaced Mrs Healy as county councillor for the Devonshire ward when she stood down, wrote on Facebook: "Beryl Healy was a great friend and inspiration to many, sadly passed away today following an accident.
"This is sad news, and Beryl will be missed by many. My thoughts are with her family."
Other colleagues paid respects on Twitter:
Beryl Healy was a friend to so many and an inspiration to us all. RIP
— Margaret Bannister (@mbann141) June 4, 2015
Very sad to hear of the untimely death of former Lib Dem mayor and leader of Eastbourne Council, Beryl Healy. A fine servant to our town.
— Dave Brinson (@davebrinson) June 4, 2015
So sad to hear that Beryl Healy, who contributed so much to Eastbourne, lost her life today in tragic circumstances. RIP Beryl.
— Jon Harris (@Jon_P_Harris) June 4, 2015
Very sad to hear that former Mayor of Eastbourne Beryl Healy has died after a tragic accident. She was a great ambassador for our town. RIP
— Tony Freebody (@TonyFreebody) June 4, 2015
Sussex Police is appealing for anyone who saw what happened to email collision.appeal@sussex.pnn.police.uk or phone 101, quoting Operation Westgate.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel