THE family of a young woman who was killed after a car hit a group of pedestrians at a car meet are holding a road safety event in her name this weekend.

The ‘Stay Static For Sophie’ car meet is being held on Sunday to raise road safety awareness following the death of 19-year-old Sophie Louise Smith, from Radcliffe, who was hit by a BMW that collided with a group of pedestrians at Trafford Park on May 31 last year.

An inquest into the accident took place last month, and now Sophie’s family are hoping lessons can be learned to prevent further families from suffering in the way they have.

In a statement, Sophie’s step-father Harish Patel and cousin Sarah Van Der Merwe said: “With Sophie having been a static car enthusiast, we wanted to take this opportunity to raise awareness about road safety and ensure further car meets in the area remain safe for everyone to enjoy.

“We are really grateful that the local council and police force are also in full support of the event.”

They added: “In honour of Sophie, her Renault Clio has been transformed – in just 17 days – into the car she had always dreamed of."

Work was carried out on the car with help from local businesses and it will be on display at the event.

The event is being held at the City Airport and Heliport in Manchester on Sunday from 4pm to 9pm.

Inspector Burrill, from Greater Manchester Police, said: “I am delighted that both the police and the fire service have been invited to promote road safety at this commemorative event.

“We are working closely with Sophie’s family to raise awareness of road safety and prevent such a tragic incident being repeated. Greater Manchester Police fully support genuine car enthusiasts and support their right to meet and socialise in appropriate places, as long as this is done in a safe and responsible way.

"We are keen to educate anyone who drives in a dangerous and anti-social manner, and make them more aware of the consequences of engaging in such driving.”

Matthew Garson of Irwin Mitchell, which represented the family, said: “Sadly I often see the devastating impacts of careless driving in my work and I am proud to be supporting Sophie’s family in getting the message of road safety across to others.”