TOUCHING messages and floral tributes have been left at the scene of a crash which killed a woman in her 80s in Christchurch.

Five bunches of flowers, including lilies, daffodils and gerberas, have been placed in Somerford Road, near the Purewell Cross roundabout.

Messages include: “We lost an angel, you will be missed by everyone, love, hugs, Will and Henry” and: “Rest in peace, so very sad, sleep well little lady xxx”

Another appears to have been left by someone who tried to help the pensioner following the collision.

It says: “I tried my best but you were ready to go.

"I just want to say you weren’t alone, I was with you all the time and now you will be with me in my mind.

"Sleep well lovely lady, Laura x"

Employees from nearby businesses are said to have rushed to help the woman following the crash

The accident took place outside In Excess and witnesses said the vehicle involved, a Ford Focus, appeared to be leaving the DIY store’s car park when the collision took place.

A 54-year-old man from Christchurch was arrested at the scene on suspicion of motoring offences and questioned by police.

He has since been released under investigation while enquiries continue.

Emergency services were called to Somerford Road at 3.15pm on Monday and the air ambulance also landed in a nearby field.

The woman died at the scene and her family has now been informed and is being supported by specially-trained officers.

The Dorset coroner has also been informed and an inquest will be held to establish exactly what happened.

Police are still appealing for witnesses to the incident to come forward.

Anyone with information should call Dorset Police on 101 quoting incident number 18:263.