Floral tributes left at the scene of the accident Picture Ref: 77630-30A GIRL with a beautiful smile has been killed in a car crash on a dangerous country lane.

Amelia Newton-Clare, 17, or Milly as she was also known, died after a two-car smash on the road between Hinton Parva and Bishopstone, near Swindon.

The apprentice hairdresser who worked at Knock Em Dead in Morley Street, Swindon, has been described as bubbly and beautiful with a lust for life.

As a mark of respect, the salon closed for the day and floral tributes were left outside and at the accident scene.

Milly's parents, of Knighton, near Ashbury, were too upset to talk but family friend Melanie Andrews, of Malmesbury, said news of her death had caused widespread devastation.

"It hasn't really sunk in yet," she said.

"She was a beautiful girl who was just embarking on life.

"She was very bubbly, creative and very entertaining. She was a breath of fresh air. She always wanted to be a hairdresser and fitted it like a glove."

After finishing her GCSE's last summer, Milly left St Mary's School in Wantage and began working at the salon last autumn.

Headteacher Sue Sowden said: "She was a delightful, open and friendly girl with a warm, caring personality who inspired great affection in everyone who knew her. She had the most beautiful smile."

Among the floral tributes left at the accident scene was one from her boyfriend which read: "Meewee, I'm so sorry. Thank you for all the good times. Never forget them or you. Keep smiling on us."

Another tribute, left outside the salon, read: "Always miss you. You were a happy, cheerful girl. Will always be looking up and thinking of you."

Milly was driving a blue Renault Clio when the crash happened just after 7pm on Wednesday.

She was treated at the scene before being taken to the Great Western Hospital where she later died from her injuries.

The other car involved, a Vauxhall Astra estate, was driven by a 45-year-old Purton man travelling from Bishopstone towards Hinton Parva.

He has left hospital after receiving treatment for whiplash, a wrist injury and chest pain.

Robert Clark, chairman of Bishopstone and Hinton Parva Parish Council, said the junction coming out of Hinton Parva towards Bishopstone was hazardous. "It's a very dangerous corner," he said.

Anyone with information about the accident can phone Swindon police on 01793 528111.

Ben Payne