The devastated husband of a woman who died after being knocked down on a busy high street just metres from her home said he was “totally lost” without her – as he warned others to take care when crossing the road where she was killed.

Brian Newton, 64, said his wife Christine, 59, had gone to buy perfume when she was hit by a motorcycle on Streatham Hill, on Tuesday, February 7.

Two ambulance crews and an air ambulance were called to the incident and took the former dinner lady to the major trauma centre at King’s College Hospital, but she was later pronounced dead by doctors.

Mr Newton, who lives in nearby Barcombe Avenue, said he was at home when police officers told him what had happened.

When asked how he would remember his wife, he said: “She was perfect. She loved her music – she was always singing and dancing.

“She was a loving person and she cared about everyone. She loved her dog, Duchess, the most.

“She loved to help people out and she was a very good cook. She was a real diamond. I am totally lost.”

He added the road where Mrs Newton was hit was dangerous for pedestrians, saying motorists had difficulty seeing people crossing the road.

He said: “My wife was so used to going to the bottom of this road and going across to the other side. She did it thousands of times. People should wait until they are absolutely certain. It’s terrible.”

Mrs Newton’s nephew, Lee Cliff, said friends and family were “in total shock” following the accident.

He said: “She had such a big heart. Neighbours have been knocking on the door and saying she was such a lovely person. A lot of people knew her around the Streatham area. Everyone is still in total shock about the way it happened. ”

The Newtons married in Tulse Hill in 1970 and lived in Streatham for almost 40 years. They had two children and five grandchildren together and had been enjoying life as a retired couple until the tragedy last week.

Shocked friends left messages on an online tribute page to Mrs Newton. One said: “We have known her for more than 25 years. So sorry for Brian and family’s loss. Thinking of you all at this time. RIP Christine.”

Police are investigating the incident, which happened at the junction of Downton Avenue and Streatham Hill, at about 11.30am on February 7.

The motorcyclist stopped, but no arrests were made. Anyone with information should contact Detective Constable Ranjit Sekhon on 020 8941 9011.

Did you know Christine? Leave your tribute below.