A popular market trader was killed in a freak accident when her car ran over her.

Susan Green had gone to the boot of the Ford Focus, parked outside her home in Prestwood Drive, Collier Row, when the car began to slip backwards.

The 52-year-old, who was married to Peter, was discovered by daughter Natalie underneath the vehicle. She died of multiple injuries at the scene.

It is believed Mrs Green attempted to stop the car – the engine was not running – from rolling down the steep hill.

Family friend John Dewey, who runs a stall at Romford Market where Mrs Green worked, said: “Everyone’s just in complete shock. It’s a freak accident, like something you would only see on television.

“The family is distraught and Peter isn’t able to leave the house. They’re finding it hard to come to terms with.”

Mrs Green, who used to work at The Camelot pub near Romford, ran a costume jewellery stall at the market for around six years and was popular with traders and customers.

She was often helped on her stall by Natalie and son Lou and her mother Nancy.

On Wednesday a barrow was set up in place of her stall for people to place flowers.

Mr Dewey, 25, of Crow Lane, Romford, said: “When people were setting up their stalls on Wednesday there were no radios on like there usually are, and the atmosphere was completely different.

“Susan was always hard working and 4am was a late start for her. If there was a pound to be made, she was up the front in sun, rain and cloud, but there was never a dull day when she was around because her generosity, friendliness and warm soul would brighten any day.

“She will be loved and missed for a long time by all.”

The incident, which happened just after noon on Monday, is not being treated as suspicious.