Two devastating crashes in one week has sparked fresh safety concerns on an Ayrshire road.
One person has died, while four others were rushed to hospital, with two of those in a serious condition after smashes on the A70 between Ayr and Coylton last week.
Shona McKinlay, 46, died at the scene on Friday morning after her Renault Kangoo van collided with a blue Audi TT.
The 44-year-old female passenger of the van was taken to Crosshouse Hospital for treatment.
The 23-year-old male driver of the Audi was taken to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow. Both were described as having serious but not life-threatening injuries.
Just days before, on Tuesday morning, two women aged 35 and 32 were rushed to hospital following a horror crash with a lorry.
Tributes have poured in for Shona, pals have described the ‘bubbly’ mum from Dreghorn as being “beautiful inside and out.”
One heartbroken pal said: “Shona you were like family to me we’ve shared so many memories together and it will never be the same without you. You were a beautiful person inside and out. I just can’t believe that you are gone.”
“All we keep thinking is we can’t believe we will never see her again and there will be an empty seat at our table at all the parties we go to.
“Always loyal, always the first to befriend you and the life and soul of the party. Nothing feels right today, it’s an uncomfortable feeling and just a big big shock to us.”
“I am devastated for the loss and pain your family will be feeling right now. I’ve thought about you all night.”
Ayr MSP Siobhian Brown has called Friday’s fatal crash ‘desperately sad’.
The SNP politician has told how constituents have raised the alarm of the road as she launched a plea for answers onto steps that can be taken to prevent more tragedies.
Both crashes happened just yards apart outside at the stretch of road outside Dobbies Garden Centre.
Ms Brown said: “The news of Friday’s fatal road accident is desperately sad, and I would urge anyone with dashcam footage to come forward to assist Police with their ongoing enquiries.
“A number of constituents have been in touch with concerns as this is the second serious crash in a week on that stretch of road.
“I have asked Police Scotland to keep me updated on the findings of their investigations and what further steps can be taken to improve safety on this stretch of road.
“My thoughts are with those who have been injured and the family of Shona McKinlay who sadly lost her life"
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