Devastated family’s tribute to ‘one of a kind’ nan and Tesco worker who died in taxi tragedy on A2990 Old Thanet Way in Herne Bay

The devastated family of a nan who died after she was hit by a taxi say she was “loved by every person who ever met her”.

Lynn Durling, 60, was walking her dog along the A2990 Old Thanet Way in Herne Bay on Friday evening when they were both struck by the vehicle.

Tributes have been paid to Lynn Durling, who died after she was hit by a taxi on the A2990 Old Thanet Way in Herne Bay. Picture: Terence Durling

Tributes have been paid to Lynn Durling, who died after she was hit by a taxi on the A2990 Old Thanet Way in Herne Bay. Picture: Terence Durling

Tributes have been paid to Lynn Durling, who died after she was hit by a taxi on the A2990 Old Thanet Way in Herne Bay. Picture: Terence Durling

The black taxi was travelling towards Herne Bay when the “one of a kind” Tesco worker and her pet, Boston, were involved in the collision between the Chestfield and Greenhill roundabouts[1].

Emergency services were called to the A2990 at about 8.30pm.

Police confirmed yesterday a woman in her 60s and a dog were pronounced dead at the scene.

Today, her family have made a heartbreaking tribute to the much-loved wife, nan and mum-of-two, naming Mrs Durling as the victim of the tragedy.

Friends have also expressed their grief, describing her as an “absolute diamond”.

Lynn Durling's dog Boston also died. Picture: Terence Durling

Lynn Durling's dog Boston also died. Picture: Terence Durling

Lynn Durling's dog Boston also died. Picture: Terence Durling

Her son Terence Durling said his mum was born and raised in Penge in South East London and worked at Elmersand Tesco.

He told KentOnline: “Lynn was and still is loved by every person who ever met her and she really was one of a kind.

“If she could help you then she would – no questions asked.

“Lynn had so much love and time for her family and doted on them.

“She loved to spoil her four grandchildren and Nannie never said 'no'.

Lynn Durling loved living in Herne Bay. Picture: Terence Durling

Lynn Durling loved living in Herne Bay. Picture: Terence Durling

Lynn Durling loved living in Herne Bay. Picture: Terence Durling

“Lynn is truly going to be missed by all who knew her and especially by her family who are truly devastated by what has happened.”

Terence said his mum loved Herne Bay and would holiday there in her caravan.

She moved to the town a few years ago and worked at Tesco in Sea Street.

He added: “Lynn had a soft spot for all animals and at home, she kept budgies, quails and canaries.

“Then there's Boston – Lynn’s fur baby – who were inseparable until their final day.

The stretch of the Old Thanet Way between Chestfield and Greenhill in Herne Bay where the accident happened

The stretch of the Old Thanet Way between Chestfield and Greenhill in Herne Bay where the accident happened

The stretch of the Old Thanet Way between Chestfield and Greenhill in Herne Bay where the accident happened

“Again, Lynn loved Boston and he loved her too.

“He was a good dog and a part of the family for five years.

“May Lynn rest in peace with her fur baby.”

Hundreds of tributes have been paid to her on social media.

Terri Thompson wrote: “So, so, so saddened to hear this. Lynn was such a people person and had a big heart.”

Jemma Greaves said she was speechless following Lynn’s death, describing her as a lovely woman.

“We used to always gossip about Tesco when we worked together in Beckenham,” she said.

“I am so sorry for your loss – Lyn was an amazing woman.”

Katie Harris said: “I cannot believe I am reading this. Lynn was loved by all her Tesco colleagues and friends. An absolute diamond.”

Serious collision investigators are investigating the circumstances and are urging witnesses who have not yet spoken to police to come forward.

You can email [email protected] or upload dashcam footage here[2].

Anyone who saw what happened, or who may have dashcam footage of the collision, or CCTV, should call the appeal line on 01622 798538 quoting reference RY/SS/095/24.

References

  1. ^ the collision between the Chestfield and Greenhill roundabouts (www.kentonline.co.uk)
  2. ^ upload dashcam footage here (kep.uk.evidence.com)