'Bubbly' mum killed in Ayrshire two car crash on A70 was 'life and soul of the party'

Tributes have poured in for a mum who was killed in an early morning road crash on Friday.

Shona McKinlay was the driver of a Renault Kangaroo van which was involved in a collision with a blue Audi TT car at around 5.55am on October 28.

The crash happened on the A70, a short distance from the Holmston Roundabout between Ayr and Coylton.

The 46-year-old from Dreghorn was pronounced dead at the scene.

She leaves behind her children Callum and Tahlar Grant, and fiancé Andy Muir.

The 44-year-old female passenger of the van was taken to Crosshouse Hospital in Kilmarnock for treatment following the incident, while the 23-year-old male driver of the Audi was taken to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow.

Both have injuries which are serious but not life-threatening.

Those who knew Ms McKinlay have paid tribute to her on social media.

Neil Claxton said: “Absolutely devastated my good pal gone far too soon, the support, love and friendship will never be forgotten. My heartfelt condolences go out to your two lovely children and of course my mate Andy I hope you find some sort of comfort knowing how much Shona meant to everyone.”

Darren Briers added: “Deepest sympathy to my good friend Andy Muir on the passing of Shona Mckinlay. 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.”

Amanda McFarlane said: “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. Everytime we talk about her our eyes fill up. Can’t even begin to imagine how her fiancée is feeling but we will be there for you no matter what Andy.”

Suzi Sue wrote: “Shona Mckinlay I am devastated for the loss and pain your family will be feeling right now. I’ve thought about you all night that bubbly wee lassie in Sandyford. Only chatted couple of days ago and we planned to have a wee drink together next week in Belfast. Deepest condolences to Andy Muir and all your family.

“Just so sad honey, you were one of the good yins and I’m proud to have known you as a friend.”

Police are continuing enquiries to establish the full circumstances and are asking anyone who may have dash cam or CCTV footage to get in touch.

Sergeant Stewart Taylor of the Road Policing Unit in Irvine said: “Our thoughts are with Shona’s family and friends at this difficult time.

“We are continuing with enquiries to establish the full circumstances and anyone with information or who may have dash cam or CCTV footage from the area is asked to get in touch.

“You can pass on details to us by calling 101, quoting reference 0471 of October 28, 2022.”