Husband's heartbreaking letter after wife Susan Clarke killed in Whitkirk crash

Michael Clarke released the letter via West Yorkshire Police following the tragedy on Tuesday, January 12.

His wife Susan was hit by the driver of a Ford Kuga as she crossed the A6120 Ring Road, near to the junction with Whitkirk Lane, just after 9am.

The 68-year-old died from her injuries in the early hours of Wednesday, January 20.

In his letter, Mr Clarke expressed his thanks to members of the public who tried to help his wife before the emergency services arrived, as well as the police, ambulance service, and the medical staff who cared for her.

Mr Clarke's letter in full:

"On Thursday 21st January 2021 the West Yorkshire Police issued a press release concerning the death of my wife subsequent to her being involved in a road traffic collision in Whitkirk on the 12th January 2021.

"I would like to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude to every person who was involved, in any way, in rendering assistance at the scene of the tragedy and in every aspect of the help which my wife received after the accident.

"Initially I wish to express our thanks to all members of the public who helped my wife prior to the arrival of the emergency services, who arrived at the scene and efficiently administered the necessary measures in an endeavour to save my wife’s life.

"Secondly I must thank all the emergency services i.e. ambulances services and police for the compassionate, courteous and considerate manner in which they all played such a vital part in ensuring that the whole operation was carried out with speed and efficiency in order to endeavour to mitigate the consequent effect of the traumatic injuries from which she suffered.

"Since the accident the police have been extremely supportive to me and my family and we are now in the fortunate position of having a sympathetic and helpful family liaison officer with whom we can share our worries and ask any questions that may occur to us whilst reliving the tragic experience.

"Finally I have to express our gratitude for the dedication, patience and understanding of all members of the ICU at the LGI who cared for my wife until she finally died at 02.30 on Wednesday 20th January 2021.

"Their cooperation and compassion, particularly when imparting unwelcome information, concerning the damage and state of my wife’s injuries, partially alleviated the grave sadness with which the recipients received this news.

"In addition the nursing staff were extremely accommodating when asked to pass on audio messages and zoom calls to the comatose patient.

"In conclusion I must say that in our darkest times we realise, with profound appreciation, the dedication and humanity of our emergency services and the devotion of all members of the NHS and the innate generosity and helpfulness of our fellow citizens.

"Once more our sincere thanks to every person involved with this tragic loss of life."

Last week, Sergeant Mick Kilburn of West Yorkshire Police Major Collision Enquiry Team, said: “Enquiries into this fatal collision are ongoing and I am appealing for witnesses and anyone who may have Dashcam, CCTV or phone footage of the incident to come forwards.

"Anyone who can assist the investigation is asked to contact the Major Collision Enquiry Team via 101 quoting log number 302 of 12 January.”

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