FORMER rugby league star John Stankevitch has led tributes to his ‘incredible mum’ after she was killed in a tragic road accident.

Cathie, aged 54, was walking her dog near the Four Topped Oak pub in Hough Green Road, Widnes when she was knocked down by an out of control van.

Police say a silver Citroen Berlingo was in collision with two pedestrians, a woman and a man at 3.15pm on Sunday.

It is suspected that the 44-year-old driver may have fallen ill at the wheel before veering off the road.

He is in a stable condition at Whiston Hospital.

Cathie suffered head injuries and was flown by air ambulance to Aintree Hospital where she sadly died a short time later.

Her son, John, aged 35, played for Widnes and St Helens and coaches West Bank Bears under eights.

He was informed of the tragedy as he watched the Vikings’ victory over Leigh Centurions.

He posted on Twitter: ‘For those that knew my mum, she was hit by a car today while walking the dog.

‘She passed away this afternoon. Absolutely devastated.’

Later, he added: ‘Thank you to everybody that has posted about my incredible mum.

‘We are all in bits as you can imagine. 54 is no age to leave anybody behind.’

In a tribute, her family said: “Cathie was a wonderful lady who put everyone before herself.

“Her family was her world, without her we are heartbroken and there is a big hole left in everyone’s life.

“We are so very grateful for all the kind messages and support, it has been overwhelming.

“We would like to take this opportunity to request privacy to give us time alone to grieve.”

Widnes Vikings posted: ‘The thoughts of all Vikings, players, coaches and staff are with John and his family at this incredibly sad time.’

Friends, relatives and fans have expressed their condolences.

Caroline Foran posted: ‘I used to work with Cathie at Morrisons. Lovely lady.’

Cathy Gormley said: ‘My deepest sympathy goes to the whole family. Such a lovely, hard working lady. Taken so young.’

Barbara Arrowsmith added: ‘I worked with Cathie for many years. She was such a lovely, caring person.’

Heidi Karalius posted: ‘Deepest condolences to the family. Wishing you the strength to deal with your devastating loss.’

Jenny Ellison said: ‘She was a lovely, friendly, warm lady with a great sense of humour.’

Samantha Nelson added: ‘She was a lovely woman, can’t believe it.

‘Always remember her when I was a little girl.’

Samantha Jacobs posted: ‘Such a tragic accident and such devastation and heartache caused to the family. Thinking of them at this awful time.’

The second pedestrian, a 55-year-old man, was taken to Aintree Hospital with slight injuries.

Cheshire Police is investigating the cause of the collision.

Sgt Rachel Gallagher said: “Cheshire Police would like to thank all those who stopped and assisted the casualties.

“We are also appealing for witnesses to the collision and pre incident driving of the silver van or anything that may assist the investigation.”

Anyone with information should contact Cheshire Police on 101 quoting incident 600 of 27 September 2015.