The family of an 18-year-old woman who died following a traffic collision in Banbury have paid tribute to a “witty and beautiful human being”. Esme Elizabeth Heaton-Biggs died on Sunday (October 4), a day after the collision on Bloxham Road, Banbury, on Saturday. A 36-year-old man has been charged in connection with the incident.
Family tribute to a 'bright and unique light'
In a statement released by the family, they described Esme as a “funny, kind, stubborn, witty and beautiful human being, on the inside and the outside”. They said she was a “much loved daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece and cousin”. The tribute continued: “On Sunday the 4th of October the world got suddenly dimmer as one of the brightest and most unique lights left us too soon.”
The family spoke of the individual ways they will miss her. “She leaves behind a mum that will miss her smile and her laughter, and her uncanny ability to lift anyone up who needed it,” the tribute read. “She leaves behind a dad that will miss her practical jokes, and cheeky temperament that could lighten everyone's day up.”
Remembered by brother, friends and community
Esme’s brother will miss “his little sister, the pink version of himself, the one person that always pushed him to do more”, while her sister-in-law will miss “spontaneous messages, pictures, singalongs and shopping trips”. Her friends described her as “their spark” and “the glue that held the social group together”.
The family added: “The tragic loss of Esme leaves a profoundly large hole in the hearts of so many for so many different reasons, and she has been tragically taken from all of us far too soon. Esme has barely just begun her adult life, going on holidays and nights out with her friends, and making plans with everyone who ever wanted to make plans, so she could live the fullest and most fulfilling life possible.”
Charge and court appearance
Brian Mclaren, 36, of Vincent Way, Banbury, was charged with causing death by dangerous driving, causing death by driving whilst disqualified, causing death by careless driving while over the prescribed limit, driving whilst disqualified, and driving a motor vehicle while above the alcohol limit. He appeared at High Wycombe Magistrates Court and has been remanded, with a next appearance scheduled at Oxford Crown Court on 6 November.
Thames Valley Police said a 24-year-old man and a 33-year-old woman, who were also arrested in relation to the investigation, have been released on police bail while enquiries continue. The family also expressed gratitude to the emergency services and hospital staff, saying: “Thank you, knowing that Esme was taken care of to such a high degree by so many brings a great level of comfort in this incredibly difficult time.”
