Tributes paid to 'little angel' girl killed after being hit by tractor in New Cumnock

Tributes have been paid to a nine-year-old girl who died after being struck by a tractor while riding her bicycle in a village in Ayrshire.

Naomi Sarah Ferrans was knocked down on the A76 in the Castle area of New Cumnock at around 12.35pm on Monday.

Emergency services attended but she was pronounced dead at the scene.

“Today’s heart-breaking events will come as a shock to all of us, and especially to the close knit community of New Cumnock,” said Elena Whitham, MSP for Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley.

“My thoughts and deepest condolences are with all involved during this incredibly difficult time.”

Floral tributes have been left on the A76. STV News

Paying tribute on social media, a family friend wrote: “I’m absolutely heartbroken, totally devastated.

“Naomi was one of a kind, anyone who knew her knows of her little cheeky personality, no matter where she was she brought smiles to people’s faces.

“May you rest in peace little angel sending you all big hugs and my deepest sympathy”.

Naomi was a member of the Ayrshire East Scouts troupe.

A statement said: “I am sure that many of you will be aware that there was a serious incident in New Cumnock earlier today.

“I am sorry to say that the young person who lost their life as a result of this incident was a member of the 46th Ayrshire (New Cumnock) Scout group.

“The thoughts of everyone within the District are with her family, friends and fellow members of the scout group.”

Linda McAulay Griffiths, chief education officer at East Ayrshire Council, said: “Our thoughts are with all involved at this very sad time. We will be working closely with the school and together we will do all we can to help and support those affected in the coming days.”

New Cumnock Baptist Church wrote online: “After the tragic event in the town today Tuesday Club is cancelled. Our prayers are with the family.”

The A76 was closed for collision investigation work to be carried out, and re-opened around 8pm on Monday.

Police confirmed that enquiries into the crash remain ongoing at this time, and have appealed for any witnesses to come forward.

Inspector Craig Beaver of Ayrshires Road Policing Unit said: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Naomi at this difficult time and we ask that their privacy is respected.

“Our enquiries are ongoing and we are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident and who hasn’t already spoken to officers to get in touch.

“I would also appeal to anyone who was in the area around the time and who may have dash-cam footage which could assist to contact us.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact 101 quoting reference 1311 of September 18, 2023.