THE family of a woman who died in a hit and run crash in Poole last weekend have paid a moving tribute to her, saying “she made our family whole”.

Courtney White, 23, died after being struck by a vehicle on the A3049 Canford Way last Sunday evening.

Ten people have been arrested following her death.

Ms White had a three-year-old daughter, Evie, and seven siblings.

Her sister Alice White told the Daily Echo: “To describe my sister in only a few words seems like a challenge within itself.

“Courtney’s vibrant, maternal, warm character would be a constant source of love and comfort for our family.

“She was a daughter, a sister, a granddaughter but innately Courtney was a mother. She was instinctively maternal, authentic and thoughtful. She made our family whole, she made us our best selves.”

Following the tragedy, a Just Giving appeal has been set-up by a friend to raise £7,000 for the family.

It is hoped the money will help at a “heartbreaking time and to set money aside for a little future happiness for Courtneys little girl‘s piggy bank”.

So far, more than £5,000 has been given by the community.

Alice added: “Our family greatly appreciates your messages of condolence and donations.

Read more: Ten people arrested over hit and run crash on Canford Way in Poole

“We are eternally grateful to our community for helping to relieve the financial strain of an unprecedented funeral so close to Christmas, I know that these past few years have been difficult for all of us.

“These donations will be used to pay for Courtney’s funeral, with any remaining money going towards creating some happy memories for her three-year old daughter, in hopes of giving her some optimism about the future, now that her mummy is gone.

“We ask that you please continue to respect our privacy, so that we can begin to navigate through this challenging and tragic time as a family.”

Seven people were initially arrested following the crash, with a further three arrested this week.

Read more: Floral tributes left at scene of collision

Police were called to the scene around 9.45pm on Sunday evening following reports of a collision involving a black Ford Fiesta and a pedestrian.

All ten people were arrested on suspicion of driving offences. One of the 19-year-old men was released on police bail and the other nine people who were arrested have been released under investigation while enquiries continue.