Woman killed while walking dog was due to wed

A 39-year-old woman has died after she was hit by a van while walking her dog.

The woman, named locally as Elizabeth Balfe, was due to marry her long-term partner later this year.

She was struck by the van while walking on a minor country road near her home at Moyneard, Moyne, Co Tipperary, shortly after 4pm yesterday.

Ms Balfe, who was originally from Leixlip, Co Kildare, worked as a nurse manager at St Anne's centre in Roscrea, Co Tipperary.

Local councillor and neighbour John Hogan said Ms Balfe's death was a "massive loss to the community."

"She was an absolutely lovely woman. This is an absolute tragedy. My heart goes out to her whole family and her partner. He is a local man and I can't imagine what he is going through now."

A friend, who did not wish to be named, described her as a "loveable young woman" who was always "out walking her beloved dog Charlie".

Ms Balfe died at the scene.

The 55-year-old male van driver was uninjured.

*Earlier occupation details have been amended on request