Tributes have been paid to talented athlete and hospital worker Kate Burge, who was killed in a road traffic collision on Monday.

Kate, a 41 year old physiotherapist, died at the scene in a collision with a car on the main road in Kirk Michael.

Director of Nursing, Midwifery and Therapies at Noble’s Hospital, Bev Critchlow, said: 'Kate was a valued and much loved member of staff. Her commitment and dedication to her patients always shone through and her loss will come as a shock to many in the health service, not least her close colleagues in the physiotherapy department. We are so sad today. All of our thoughts are with
Kate’s family, friends and close colleagues at this difficult time.'

Kate was a prominent member of the local sports community. Writing on the Manx Athletics website, Manx Fell Runners chairman Richie Stevenson says: 'The terrible news that Kate Burge had died in a tragic road accident in Kirk Michael has completely stunned the close knit fell running community on the island. A very pleasant and likeable person, Kate was also a talented athlete who could perform to a very high standard on fells, road and cross country. Manx Fell Runners would like to pass on their condolences to all Kate`s family and friends. A big thank you also to everyone who fought in vain to save Kate`s  life on Monday evening. RIP Kate.'

Police are continuing to appeal for information about the circumstances of the crash, which involved a dark blue Range Rover being driven by another local woman who had an infant in the car. Both escaped injury.

Sergeant Andy Kneen said: 'We are building a picture of what has happened. I would like to reiterate our appeal for anyone else who witnessed the collision, to come forward. We would also like to hear from anyone who saw a group of three cyclists, or a dark blue Range Rover, on the TT course from Douglas to Kirk Michael immediately before the collision. Your account may be vital in
establishing the facts of what has occurred.'