THE family of Mariola Martin has released a statement following her death in a road traffic collision.

The 53-year-old, from Swindon, died after a crash on the A303 involving a broken down Mazda MX5 which was stationary in the inside lane and a lorry.

The Mazda was struck from behind by the articulated lorry which was travelling east.

Mariola died at the scene as a result of her injuries and one of her pet dogs was also killed.

Her family has now paid the following tribute:

"Mariola Martin, 53, was a vibrant and energetic woman that loved life. She was the sort of person that overcame her personal challenges with humour and persistence.

"Born in Poland into a family of 9 siblings, she was a spirited and confident child who went on to study catering at college where she developed amazing culinary skills.

"She travelled to Swindon when she was 17 for a study break to spend time with her eldest sister.

"During this time she met her first husband with whom she had two wonderful children.

"Unfortunately, the marriage didn't work out, but Mariola, a hard-working person, took on two jobs (at Debenhams and Wise's) so that she could raise her two small children, which she did as a single parent.

"She later moved on to Honda and then to Dyson's where she was happy.

"In 2011 she suffered the loss of her eldest child, Joey, to suicide, which brought with it an immense sense of loss.

"From that time she devoted herself to her two dogs, her gardening and her daughter who introduced her to a selfhelp group for families who had lost loved ones to suicide.

"Mariola was just getting her life back on track, through this group, when she was tragically taken from her family.

"She also lost one of her two dogs in this sad event.

"She is survived by her daughter Jewelly and her beloved dog Harry.

"She will be missed by all of her family and friends who loved her deeply for her innocence, charm and exuberance.

"The family has asked not to be contacted by the press at this very difficult time. Thank you."

  • THE lorry driver, a 51-year-old man from Devon, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

He has been released on bail pending further enquiries.

The A303 eastbound was closed for more than hours while the scene was examined and the vehicles recovered.

Wiltshire Police are still appealing for witnesses following the fatal road traffic collision on the A303 at the weekend.

The incident took place at approximately 12.54pm on Sunday, July 27 at the A303 Mere Bypass on the eastbound carriageway.

Anyone who witnessed the collision is asked to contact Wiltshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously.