Woman, 83, in hospital after collision with Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's police convoy

An 83-year-old woman has been seriously injured after an accident involving the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s police convoy.

The incident happened on Upper Richmond Road, Richmond in south-west London, as Prince William and Kate were being driven to the Order of the Garter service in Windsor on Monday afternoon.

The couple did not learn about the collision involving the pensioner (who has been named locally as Irene Mayor) and the police motorbike until they had arrived at Windsor, according to The Sun.

A witness told the newspaper: "His bike hit her and she spun round, off her feet and fell badly on the floor."

Her daughter Fiona told The Sun the royal couple have offered to visit.

She added: "She's got lots of injuries. They are just keeping her stable at the moment."

It is understood the Cambridges have sent flowers and a handwritten note.

A royal aide from Kensington Palace has also reportedly met with the woman’s family.

Kensington Palace said: "The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were deeply concerned and saddened to hear about the accident on Monday afternoon.

"Their Royal Highnesses have sent their very best wishes to Irene and her family and will stay in touch throughout every stage of her recovery."

Giles Oakley, a neighbour who lives opposite Ms Mayor, told the Press Association: "They're a lovely family.

"It is very, very sad that Irene has been injured. She is a very sweet person and is very well liked in the street."

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating the circumstances of the collision which involved a motorcycle attached to the Royalty and Specialist Protection Command.

An IOPC spokesman said: "The woman, in her 80s, suffered serious injuries and was taken to a London hospital where she remains in a serious but stable condition.

"In line with procedure, the Metropolitan Police Service referred the collision to the IOPC.

"Our staff attended the scene of the incident and after careful consideration, we have launched an independent investigation.

"The investigation is in its very early stages and the officer involved is assisting our enquiries as a witness.

"Our immediate thoughts are with the injured woman and her family and those affected by the incident."

Members of the Royal Family always travel with a police escort.

The motorcycle at the very front of the convoy is thought to be the one which collided with the pensioner.

Willian and Kate did not see the accident and it is standard police procedure for Royal or diplomatic convoys to continue if there is an incident involving an outrider.

Earlier this year, the Duke of Edinburgh, 98, surrendered his driving licence after a crash at Sandringham.

Philip flipped his Land Rover Freelander on January 17 after colliding with a Kia as he pulled out onto the A149 in Norfolk.

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