A MUM died after being hit by a skidding vehicle after she stopped to help a motorist near Shaftesbury, an inquest has heard.

Natalie Cristina Mountford, of Sturminster Newton, stopped to help a motorist on the B3091, near the junction with Cole’s Lane, at around 12.40am on December 18.

An inquest opened at Bournemouth Coroner’s Court said her blue Vauxhall Astra was struck by a red Vauxhall Corsa at the scene, with the 45-year-old sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

Now, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support Natalie’s family.

Writing to launch the fundraising effort, Stephanie Alston said: “This news came as a devastating shock to us all and I think we’re all struggling to come to terms with this.

“Nat was such a beautiful selfless person who would literally do anything for anyone, which was made ever more apparent by the tragic way in which she passed.”

Other tributes on the fundraising page, which has reached a total of more than £8,000, paid tribute to Natalie.

Danielle Rice wrote: “Nat, it’s still so hard to accept you’ve gone from this world. You were such a huge part of me and my family’s lives.

“You’ve done so much and your memory will be forever shared. I loved you so much and you were my best friend, even through everything we’ve been through, you’ve always been in my mind and heart. Love you forever hun.

“Your children will not be alone, there are loads of people who will help support them for you. Rest in heavenly peace, you’ve been reunited with nan.”

“You really were a kind and beautiful soul Nats,” wrote Louise White.

“Much love to your family. Heaven gained another angel.”

Sam and Darren Moody said: “Nat was always such a kind and caring person. She will be greatly missed and her children have lost a brilliant mum. They will keep her kind-hearted spirit going forever.”

The driver of the Corsa – a local woman in her 20s – received treatment for injuries that were not believed to be serious, police added.

After the crash, road closures were put in place for an examination of the scene to take place.

Sergeant Mark Scammell, of the traffic unit, said: “Our thoughts are with the family of the woman who sadly died in this collision, and we are carrying out enquiries to establish the full circumstances of what happened.

“I would urge any witnesses, or anyone with relevant dashcam footage, who has not already spoken to police to please get in touch with us to assist our investigation.

“I would also like to thank members of the public for their patience and understanding during the closures.”