A WOMAN who died in a car crash on the M27 has been named by police as a grandmother from Fareham who moved to the UK 45 years ago to work as an au pair.

Marie-Luise Elisabeth Monika Woodward was the passenger in a car that crashed on the slip road off junction seven of the motorway near Hedge End last Sunday.

The 68-year-old died in a three-car pile-up that is thought to have occurred after a Hyundai 4x4 smashed into the back of the Vauxhall Corsa Ms Woodward was in while it was waiting at traffic lights.

Police road investigators believe the initial collision then forced Ms Woodward's car into the back of another vehicle waiting in front of her, causing massive injuries from which she later died.

Police have since arrested a 41-year-old man from Fareham on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, though he has not yet been charged.

He has now been released on bail until May, 21 pending further inquiries.

Paying tribute to Mrs Woodward, a joint statement from her family said: "Monika came to England 45-years ago from East Berlin to work as an au pair.

"Despite working with English families, she never lost her German accent and indeed was very proud of her country's achievements after the Second World War.

"She was devoted to her children and grandchildren and there was nothing that would keep her from trying to make their lives as enjoyable as possible.

"On the night she died she had planned to take them to a show at Southampton.

"She was a keen supporter of several charities and liked to take part at functions and at a local woman's club. She will be very badly missed by her partner of many years, her children, her grandchildren, her brothers and the host of friends she has made since coming to England."

Police are appealing for witnesses to the collision or anyone who saw the vehicles prior to the crash, shortly after 6.30pm.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Totton Roads Policing Unit quoting Operation Vaudrey' on 0845 045 45 45.