South Wales Police has confirmed the identity of the elderly woman who passed away after being involved in a serious road traffic collision on Friday (20 December).

Shirley Hope, aged 84, died after the grey Peugeot she was driving was in collision with a red BMW on Rhigos Road at approximately 3pm.

Her family have paid the following tribute to her:

“We are completely devastated by her loss and she will be sorely missed. We were very close and loved spending time together. Shirley was a loving mother and grandmother and she was extremely proud of her family. She was a much loved mother to Kevin, Karen and Martyn, and a proud grandmother to nine grandchildren. Shirley was born on the 8 December, 1935, in Talgarth, and married Bryan Hope who was a local Pharmacist, well known in Llwydcoed, Aberdare where she lived most of her married life. Shirley will be sadly missed by her friends and family.”

The family are being supported by a specially-trained family liaison officer.

Two men, aged 25 and 21, both from Hirwaun, have been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving – they have both been released under investigation.

Officers investigating the collision are continuing their appeal for information.

They would like to speak to anybody who may have noticed the manner of driving of two cars – a red BMW and white BMW – in the moments before the collision.

Any witnesses to the collision or anyone else with information which may assist police, are asked to contact 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 quoting occurrence number *466639.