Funeral of hero mum Rachael Martin to take place

The funeral of a Stratford mother who died in a tragic road traffic collision on Western Road last month is to take place on Thursday, 23 June.

Rachael Martin, 29, was struck by a car transporter on 20 May, sacrificing herself to save her five-year-old daughter Keira’s life.

Rachael was walking Keira and her other daughter Leah, 7, to school when the accident happened, and staff from nearby car dealerships were first on the scene assisting in an way they could.

Despite the efforts of the emergency services, Rachael was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

Keira was left with serious injuries to her pelvis and lower spine in the incident and was treated at St George’s Hospital in London before being transferred to Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

Paying tribute to Rachael after the accident, her father Bill described her as a great mother, daughter and sister, who was always smiling and happy.

Rachael’s mum Susan said: “Keira’s had all of her operations for the time being and she’s doing well, it was her birthday yesterday and I think she had a good time. She’s recovering but it’s going to be a long journey and she’ll need more operations in the future.

“She’s at Birmingham Children’s Hospital at the moment and they’ve been fantastic, they’re doing a great job. We’ve been staying at the Ronald MacDonald House at the hospital with Leah so we can be nearby.

“Leah is back at school and she’s coping well with what happened.”

Rachael’s funeral next Thursday will take place in the North Chapel at Oakley Wood Crematorium at 10.45am and is an open funeral.

People are invited to bring donations for the Air Ambulance and Ronald MacDonald House.