GRIEVING relatives of a woman killed in a crash on a Suffolk road today revealed the death is the second tragedy to hit the family in five years.

GRIEVING relatives of a woman killed in a crash on a Suffolk road today revealed the death is the second tragedy to hit the family in five years.

Abbie Pennell died on Monday morning after her Mitsubishi Warrior pick-up truck collided with a coach at a notorious junction on the B1113 at Great Blakenham, close to the A14.

Today, the 22-year-old's cousin, Amanda Squirrell, 39, told how Abbie's uncle, electrician John Pennell, died at work in Great Blakenham on a Monday in November 2004.

She said: “It's a double tragedy for our family. We can't get our heads around it.

“Abbie was like a rock to us when we lost our dad. She was brilliant.

“She was so charismatic - she could light up a room and was so full of energy.”

Amanda's sister Lynsey Pennell added: “Abbie was the most amazing person you could ever meet.

“Heaven has gained a real angel.”

Abbie, who lived in Hadleigh with her boyfriend of six years, worked at Otley College as a course administrator for distance learning.

Philip Winfield, principal at Otley, said: “The college was in shock when we heard the news. Abbie was a very popular staff member and she will be sadly missed.

“We will be offering staff the opportunity of signing a book of remembrance in tribute to Abbie. Our thoughts and prayers are very much with her family at this time.”

The former Claydon High School pupil was today described by friends as a “wonderful person”.

Simon Hubert said: “Abbie was such a lovely girl.

“There are no words in existence that even come close to conveying to people who didn't know her what a wonderful person Abbie was.”

Lisa Mulley added: “What an angel to be taken away from us. A true ray of sunshine.”

Abbie leaves older brother Jack, mum Louisa and dad Philip.

- A 43-year-old man from Eye has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. He was released on bail to return to Bury St Edmunds police station on September 1.

- Anyone who may have seen anything that could help the police inquiry should telephone 01473 613500.