Tributes paid to 'dearly loved' 75-year-old grandmother who died in Whalley crash

A 75-year-old woman, who has now been named as Rosina Cherry Gardner, died after a collision in Whalley.

Officers were called to reports of a collision involving a Citroen C3 and a Volvo HGV at around 1.45pm on Thursday, February 20.

The incident happened between Petre roundabout, Langho and Bramley Mead roundabout, Whalley.

Rosina, the driver of the Citroen C3, was pronounced dead at the scene.

In a tribute to Rosina, her family said: "Rosina Cherry Gardner was an inspiration to many people and was admired by the local community for her goodwill and strong spirit.

"People close to Rosina may also know her as ‘Ena’. She was a loving Mother to her only daughter Yvonne Cookson, Gary Marsden and a dearly loved Grandmother to Alicia and Elliot Cookson.

"Rosina was a devoted sister to Robert Watson and his wife Hillary whom have supported Rosina since the loss of her late husband Derek.

"After surviving breast cancer, Rosina then decided to explore the World visiting places such as The Great Wall of China and Antarctica.

"Rosina was an extraordinary woman that had so much courage and strength within her.

"Rosina was originally from Kirkcaldy in Scotland and was passionate about the Arts, being an avid reader of historical novels, Scottish country dancing and keeping fit.

"For a number of years she was an active member of St. Stephen’s Church in Little Harwood, where she had lived for over 30 years.

"Rosina was a very independent woman that kept active, often visiting Blackburn and the Ribble Valley for her favourite morning cup of coffee, a chat and a laugh with her close friends.

"Her career played a strong role in her life. Rosina worked as a Civil Servant for over 35 years, mainly based in Blackburn and Preston. After retirement, she also worked part-time as an assistant at Cohen’s chemist in Blackburn.

"Rosina will always be remembered for her vivacious laughter and would do anything for anyone. She was committed to looking after her family in numerous ways and enjoyed spending quality time with them.

"Her legacy will remain with the people she’s touched in her life, and her enduring message was 'to always live life to the full' and 'to always keep an open mind' in every aspect of life."

Alicia Cookson, Rosina's granddaughter, added: “She has always taught me to believe in myself which has given me the confidence to be the person who I am today.

"She was fearless and had a big heart which I will carry her legacy with me in my life”

A passenger, a woman in her 70s, was rushed to Royal Preston Hospital.

She suffered serious leg and hand injuries in the collision.

Lancashire Police attended and closed the road in both directions.

It remained closed until shortly after 10pm while emergency services worked at the scene.

A spokesperson for Lancashire Police said: "The family have been overwhelmed by the outpour of condolences and kind messages from everyone, which are helping us through this most difficult period.

"Our thoughts are also with Rosina’s friend who is in hospital as a result of her injuries."

Police are appealing for any witnesses – or anyone who has dashcam footage that may assist the investigation – to contact police on 101 quoting log number 0727 of February 20.