Ayr woman killed by roadsweeper

Oct 24 2008 by Stuart Wilson

A CHURCH elder was mowed down and killed by a mini road sweeper.

The bizarre accident happened as pensioner Jean Hart crossed Dalmilling Road last Wednesday morning.

It’s believed the 63-year-old was hit by the road sweeper as it reversed close to Mainholm Road.

The driver of the Scarab Minor sweeper is said to be distraught after the tragic events.

Both the police and the council are conducting investigations to find out exactly how the tragedy unfolded.

Jean, an elder at St Quivox Church, was a well-known and popular lady in Dalmilling and beyond.

She worked in Boots in Ayr High Street for many years before retiring when she turned 60.

Jean lived with her brother Thomas, who she cared for, in Dalmilling Crescent. Her death has stunned the community.

Her heartbroken niece Deborah said: “As a family we are absolutely devastated at our loss.”

Moira Ness, wife of former St Quivox minister David, said: “Jean was a lovely lady and will be very sadly missed.

“She sang in the choir, organised a lot of the church’s social events and was well known by everyone.”

Janette Scott, from the North Ayr Resource Centre, said: “Jean was a really nice lady. I saw her most mornings on the bus and she always said hello. She was very well known in the area and did a lot of work with the church.”

And South Ayrshire Council offered their condolences to Jean’s family.

Council leader Hugh Hunter said: “My thoughts and sympathies are with the families and friends of those involved in this tragic accident.

“We are co-operating fully with the authorities investigating the circumstances and we will be carrying out our own internal enquiry.”

Jean’s funeral will take place in St Quivox church on Thursday at 1.15pm and Masonhill Crematorium thereafter.