The eldest daughter of a woman killed in a car crash at the weekend has spoken of the heartache that has ruined many people’s lives.

Sam Rees, 33, who lives near Keighley, spoke of her grief after her mother, Mary Byrne, was killed on Saturday in Mandale Road, Bradford.

“I have three children and they’ve been robbed of their grand-mum,” she said. “They’ve cried themselves to sleep, but they’re now being super brave and trying to cheer us up because they’re finding it hard to see us so upset.

“We’re just really distressed. My mum brought up four children virtually as a single parent and we’re a very close family. Mum would ring us up every other day just to chat and see how we were. She was extremely well-loved.”

Mrs Byrne, 51, was fatally injured just yards from her own front door. She had been paying for a private hire vehicle fare when the cab was involved in a two-car collision.

Police say the crash involved a black BMW 3 series, but officers also want to speak to anyone who saw that vehicle with a blue Ford Focus before the incident, which happened at about 5.15pm.

Officers this week confirmed three men arrested in connection with the incident had been released on bail pending further inquiries.

The only occupant of the BMW, a 21-year-old man, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, and two other men, aged 19 and 17, were also arrested on the same grounds.

Witnesses or people with further information should contact the Major Collision Enquiry Team on (01924) 293047 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Mrs Byrne was born in Bradford and lived in the city all her life. She had four children and worked as a cook at Cooper House nursing home. Her partner, Alan Jones, is currently away in Kos and due to fly back this weekend. Mrs Rees said her family was overwhelmed by the number of people who have been in touch to offer their support.