A ‘beautiful and caring’ Widnes mum has died after being attacked trying to save a woman and her baby.

Good Samaritan Alison Wilson, aged 36, tried to intervene after she spotted a man threatening a mother and child in Frank Street, Halton View.

The mum-of-two was critically injured in the incident which happened at around 11.20pm on Saturday, March 7.

She died from her wounds in Whiston Hospital six days later, surrounded by her family.

It is thought she was returning home with her 43-year-old partner when they came across the disturbance.

He also suffered cuts and bruises as he tried to stop the argument.

A spokesman for Cheshire Police said: “A man appeared to be behaving in a threatening manner towards a woman and a baby, and, when passers-by attempted to intervene, they were attacked.”

Alison, who has two daughters aged eight and 12, is believed to have been married previously.

Her devastated family said: “Alison was a beautiful, caring, loving, mother, daughter, partner, sister, sister-in-law and aunty.

“Alison was taken away from us too early for trying to help another person in distress.

“As a family we ask that you give us our privacy so we can piece our lives back together without her.”

Tender messages and flowers have been left at the scene.

One from 10 women she grew up with is signed with kisses and says: “Your big smile lit up the room. You were a ray of sunshine and were full of life.

“The wonderful memories we have of growing up with you and our many adventures will be with us forever.”

Leader of Halton Council Cllr Rob Polhill said: “This lady died trying to help someone. This is so sad. I feel for her family and friends.”

Hundreds of emotional tributes on social media have hailed Alison a hero, calling for her to be posthumously honoured.

Emma Yearsley posted: “This is absolutely heartbreaking and so unfair.

“She is a hero. You will be remembered forever by people that don’t even know you.”

Lisa Malone said: “What a brave and selfless lady putting herself on the line to help someone else. True hero.”

Chris Who’sthedaddy Hall posted: “She deserves the Victoria Cross or some much bigger recognition for this.”

Joanne Barker said: “Alison was a beautiful friend to me. I can’t stop crying. Her poor, poor girls.”

Joanne Schiazza-Martin said: “Brave lady who paid the ultimate price. Very sad and heartbreaking for her family and friends.”

Maggie Burton posted: “God planted goodness in the girl. She only tried to help.”

Diane Pearse said: “Thoughts are with the family. Such a tragedy for someone so thoughtful.”

Stephen Duggan, aged 27, of no fixed abode, but from the Widnes area, was arrested at the scene and has been charged with two counts of wounding with intent and two counts of assault.

He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear at Chester Crown Court on Monday, March 23.