A 22-year-old woman died on Christmas Day after a horror incident while riding a quad bike – with heartfelt tributes being left by her family. Gracie Vater is believed to have fallen off the quad bike after it overturned in the Cotswolds.
She was met by emergency crews on the narrow country lane which was surrounded by farmers’ fields and woodland, before being rushed to Southmead Hospital in Bristol by air ambulance. The tragic incident took place on December 23 in Shipton Moyne, Gloucestershire – less than two miles from Highgrove House, where King Charles and Queen Camilla spend much of their time.
Two men, aged 29 and 30, have since been arrested – both on suspicion of causing death or serious injury by dangerous driving. The pair have been bailed and have been instructed to return to police in February, pending further enquiries.
Gracie’s family said she was “the most kind, caring and beautiful soul inside and out, and would help anybody that needed her help” and was “loved by everyone who met her”.
Their tribute read: “We as a family are totally devastated to have lost our beautiful darling Gracie. A treasured and much loved daughter, sister, granddaughter and aunty.
“A country girl with the biggest heart and a huge love for animals, especially dogs, pigs and cows. Our lives will never be the same without her, but we take comfort in knowing that Gracie is with her beloved dad.”
The tribute added: “We ask that all of Gracie’s family are given privacy during this horrific time.”
Police have reported that one man fled the scene on a quad bike, although he was later found and arrested following a police search that included a helicopter. One of the men was also arrested on suspicion of perverting the course of justice, driving while under the influence of drugs, no licence and no insurance.
