Tributes paid to Julie Grace Stephenson, Postwoman

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TRIBUTES have been paid to a woman who was killed in a crash with a tractor Julie Grace Stephenson, 45, from Pickering, died last Thursday when the white Citroën Berlingo she was driving towards Pickering collided with a Massey Ferguson tractor going in the opposite direction.

Mrs Stephenson was a post woman in the town and had previously worked at Jacoubs In Burgate where her pet dog often joined her.

Since moving to the Post Office, Mrs Stephenson’s round covered many parts of Pickering and latterly centred on the Market Place.

Coun Linda Cowling, Pickering representative on Ryedale District Council, described Mrs Stephenson as “a lovely, popular lady” .

“She will be missed by very many people in Pickering,” she added.

A former colleague and friend said Mrs Stephenson would do anything for anyone.

“Everyone in Pickering knew her, she was a really nice lady and will be greatly missed. It is just unbelievable what has happened.”

The accident happened on the A169 between Malton and Pickering in the Howe Bridge area, near the Whole Hogg farm shop and restaurant, closing the road for five hours.

Traffic Sergeant Neil Campbell, of North Yorkshire Police’s roads policing group, said: “Our inquiries have shown that following the collision, a number of vehicles passed through the scene.

“Not all of these drivers have contacted the police. I urge them to get in touch as soon as possible, as I believe they may have vital information that could help progress the investigation.”

The 47-year-old local man driving the tractor was not injured, a police spokesman said.

A male cyclist heading towards Pickering is thought to have witnessed the crash. Anyone who can help the police with their inquiries is asked to phone TS Neil Campbell on 0845 6060247. Press option 2 and ask for Neil Campbell by name.

Mrs Stephenson’s funeral service will be held at Mowthorpe Garden of Rest in Terrington tomorrow (Thursday) at 1pm followed by a gathering for family and friends at the Memorial Hall in Pickering from 2.30pm.