Churchgoing couple in their 80s killed after being struck by car while leaving carol service just days before Xmas

TWO pensioners were killed after being struck by a car as they left a Christmas carol service in Norwich.

Police are appealing for witnesses following the fatal collision outside All Saints Church in High Kelling on Sunday afternoon. 

The incident happened at 4.20pm on the A148 at the junction with Avenue Road when a white BMW Mini One collided with the two pedestrians.

Sadly both casualties, a man and a woman aged in their 80s, died at the scene.

The driver of the Mini, a man in his 50s, has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving.

He was taken to  Wymondham Police Investigation Centre for questioning.

TRIBUTES

The Rt Rev Graham Usher, Bishop of Norwich, posted on X: “Deeply saddened about the deaths of this couple who were a key part of their local church and had spent the day serving others.

“Prayers for all involved, and for the family in grief, that the light of Christ’s coming will illuminate their darkest hour.”

Revd Canon Howard Stoker, the Rector of Holt with High Kelling, said a requiem mass would be offered for them this morning.

“Understandably, members of our congregations are reeling in shock and filled with sorrow following the tragic death of two much loved members of our church family,” he said.

“They were loved and respected for their kindness, generosity and friendship by all who knew them and they will be dearly missed.

“My thoughts and prayers at this difficult time are with their family and all who are affected by this double tragedy.

“Coming to terms with such a loss and the manner of their death is incredibly difficult, but coming so close to Christmas makes it even harder.

“Yet, as we come together again to mark the birth of our Lord Jesus, we are reminded the light of love shines in the darkness and even the deepest darkness cannot extinguish it.”

The road reopened just after 1am yesterday.

Officers would like to speak to anyone who may have witnessed the collision or the manner of driving of the Mini prior to the collision happening.

Anyone with any information or any relevant dashcam footage is asked to get in touch on 101 quoting reference NC-22122024-290.

GoogleThe collision happened on the A148 at the junction with Avenue Road[/caption]

Do you know more? Email ryan.merrifield@thesun.co.uk