Tributes to TV make-up artist killed in crash

The family of a young woman who died in a crash have said it was a "privilege to have raised and loved her".

Film and TV make-up artist Ava Gillies, 26, died following a two-vehicle collision on the A170 between Wrelton and Pickering at about 01:30 BST on 29 July.

North Yorkshire Police said a white Volkswagen Polo driven by Ava and a black Audi A4 were travelling in opposite directions when they collided.

In a tribute, her family said: "Ava, we will always, always miss you, your wit, your charm, your beauty, your feisty confidence, your many talents and your excellence in your field: hair and make-up for film and TV."

Ava was pronounced dead at the scene. Five people travelling in the Audi were taken to hospital with injuries that were not believed to be life-threatening.

Her family said: "In almost 27 years with us, you packed in so much, study, travel and work. It was a privilege to have raised you and loved you.

"Our beautiful daughter, sister and granddaughter, your loss is immeasurable."

The family said they were proud of her achievements, including becoming a BAFTA Connect member, and the opportunities that had taken her from "talented artist to new designer".

They added: "What's becoming clearer with every passing day is you were loved by so many people outside the family, your friends and the community in which you were raised.

"We take great comfort from the comments, cards and messages from people within the film industry and their expressions of love and respect for your talent."

Ava was also remembered by Delamar Academy in London, where she trained in 2018 after studying at York College.

In a statement, the beauty training school said it was "broken-hearted" by news of her death and described her as an "exceptionally gifted artist" who had successfully built her career since graduating.

Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the collision and have appealed for witnesses, or anyone with relevant dashcam footage, to come forward.

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