Driver charged after death of much-loved Yate mum

Rebecca Ashmead, aged 49, was hit by a vehicle in Kennedy Way, Yate on Wednesday, March 29 last year. 

The mother-of-four, known as Beccy or Bex, tragically died.

In a family tribute, Bex was described as a "devoted mum" who had an "unstoppable energy" and who was "always busy helping people". 

She had been a lollipop lady for St Paul's Primary School since April 2018. 

After the incident, three people were arrested by Avon and Somerset Police in connection with the case. 

Ashley Billing, aged 38, of Honey Way, Kingswood, has now been charged with three driving offences in connection with the incident. 

They are causing death by driving without due care and attention while over the alcohol limit, driving while disqualified and driving while uninsured.

It is alleged that Billing had 68 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of his breath - the legal limit being 35. 

The case was heard at Bristol Crown Court on Friday, March 15 and was adjourned for a five-day trial is scheduled to start on March 10 next year. 

Floral tributes left at the scene in Kennedy Way in March last year - photo by Simon Pizzey

In a statement released after her death, Beccy's family said: "Beccy (Bex) was a devoted mum to her four children and the best big sister you could ask for.

"She was the matriarch of an incredibly close family and we loved nothing more than being together.

"Bex's unstoppable energy meant she was always busy helping people and being at the centre of fun."

They added: "Bex was the beloved lollipop lady at her daughter's school, a job which she loved as she could make sure children were safe. She was passionate about road safety.

"Our family is devastated and in shock. 

"We appreciate the kind words of support, and the outpouring of love for Bex we have received but ask that our privacy is respected as we grieve."

A JustGiving fundraising page was launched in support of Bex's family and raised £9,007.

After the crash, dozens of floral tributes were left at the scene.

One message described Bex as a "beautiful friend inside and out" .

Bex was described by her family as a “devoted mum” who had an “unstoppable energy” (Image: Avon and Somerset Police)