A PENSIONER died after she was in collision with a van outside her Newport home yesterday.

Gwent Police are investigating after the victim, named locally as Doris Monks, suffered fatal injuries in the accident involving a van in Dart Road, Bettws, at around 3.10pm.

She was taken by ambulance to the Royal Gwent Hospital, but was pronounced dead as a result of the massive head injuries she sustained. Following the incident, police cordoned off Dart Road for four hours while they examined the scene and the van, which was selling sweets and drinks.

Mrs Monk, who is believed to have been in her seventies and lived with her two sons, David and Ian, was well known in the street.

Neighbour Jeff Chandler said: "I heard a fella shouting outside the house, so I went to the gate and saw Mrs Monks lying on the road. "The driver of the van was on the phone and calling for an ambulance, but there was nothing we could do for her."

Mr Chandler added: "I've known her for about 16 years and my wife has known her even longer. Everyone on the street knew her. It is a shock."

Bettws councillor Noel Trigg said: "My sympathy goes out to her family and her two sons, who worshipped her. Everyone says she was a lovely lady."

Inspector Steve Corcoran, of the Gwent Police traffic section, told the Argus: "An elderly resident from Dart Road was in collision with a mobile shop van. "We are examining the vehicle in partnership with the Ministry of Transport."

Police are appealing for anyone with information about the accident to contact the Road Policing Unit on 01633 642400.