TRIBUTES have been paid to a young mum who died in the M40 crash that saw her baby daughter airlifted to hospital.

Joanna Jane Bull, 29, was killed when her green Peugeot 406 estate and a red artic lorry collided on the southbound carriageway of the motorway just before junction 9 at Bicester.

Her five-week-old daughter Ruby was airlifted to the John Radcliffe Hospital after the crash, which happened yesterday.

In a statement, her family said: "Jo, who was tragically killed in a car accident, was a loving wife, mum, daughter, sister, grand daughter, niece and friend to so many and loved by all who knew her.

"She died on her way to visit her mum Teresa, with her five week old daughter Ruby, to meet newborn cousin Harry for the first time, and to have a catch up with big sister Soph, and niece Nelly, aged two."

"Jo was vibrant, beautiful, and caring in so many ways. A girl who added zest to a room and who had found true love and happiness with her husband of just one year, Dave.

"To have her taken from her family at such a happy time is utterly unbearable.

"Jo, we never had the chance to say a proper goodbye, but we will never forget how much fun and laughter you brought into all our lives, you will remain in our hearts and memories always."

Daughter Ruby was flown to the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford as a precaution.

Emergency services were unable to provide an update on her condition today. 

A Thames Valley Police spokeswoman said that Joanna, whose maiden name was Pedley, lived in Kenilworth, Warwickshire. 

The carriageway was closed for several hours while emergency services attended the scene of the crash. 

Thames Valley Police is continuing to appeal for witnesses following the collision. 

  • Our top stories: