A woman in her 80s, who was hit by a police motorcycle escorting Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, remains in a critical condition.

The duchess, who is married to the King’s brother Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, was being escorted by motorcycle outriders when the crash happened at around 3.21pm last Wednesday.

Helen Holland, 81, a grandmother-of-10, was taken to hospital after suffering “life-threatening” injuries.

The crash, which happened at the junction of Cromwell Road and Warwick Road in west London, is now being investigated by the police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

“The woman, who is in her 80s, sustained serious injuries and was taken to hospital, where she remains in a critical but stable condition,” said the IOPC on Friday.

Its regional director Amanda Rowe added: “While some witnesses to the collision have been identified, it’s important that as part of our inquiries we speak with anyone who witnessed or recorded any part of this incident to help us establish the full circumstances.”

The duchess said at the time her “thoughts and prayers” were with the “injured lady and her family”.

“She is grateful for the swift response by the emergency services and will keep abreast of developments,” a Buckingham Palace spokesperson said, refusing to comment further while the investigation continues.

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‘Beautiful, loving, kind lady’

Ms Holland’s family described her as a “beautiful, loving, kind and caring lady who would always put anyone before herself”.

“The family are deeply saddened and shocked at the news Helen was involved in such a tragic accident,” they said.

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“Helen may be 81-years-old but she is sprightly for her age and nothing stopped her living life to the full, spending precious time with her family, muddy walks with the dogs and lunches with friends is what she enjoyed most.”

They described the crash as a “huge shock for many”.

“We are all praying for a miracle and ask that you keep her in your thoughts and prayers too,” they added.

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