A FIVE-year-old girl who died after the car her father was driving plunged into the river Avon in Evesham was the “cutest angel there has ever been”.

The family of Gabrielle “Gabby” Grady have paid tribute to the little girl, who was trapped in the submerged car for two hours before being re-leased by divers on Thurs-day. Her father Chris Grady and brother Ryan, aged six, managed to get out of the sinking Vauxhall Vectra off Boat Lane, Hampton Ferry, Evesham.

Gabby was taken to Birmingham Children’s Hospital in a critical condition but died, surrounded by her family, on Sunday.

In a statement released via West Mercia Police, Gabby’s mum Kim Wise, also known as Kim Smith, of Boat Lane, Evesham, spoke of her enormous loss.

Miss Wise, aged 36, said: “What do I love about Gabby? Everything. The cutest smile you have ever seen, on the cutest angel there has ever been.

“Bedtime cuddles were always the best, her podgy little fingers wrapped around my neck, noses touching, just breathing each other in.

“Gorgeous baby girl, sparkling like a diamond in my life. Beautiful beyond belief. Bubbly, sparkly, funny and sweet. I thought you came into my life forever to keep.

“My loss is forever, but you will be with me for all time. Lots of love, hugs and kisses. Mommy.”

As well as brother Ryan, Gabby leaves behind a large extended family in Evesham and the Ronkswood area of Worcester, including three older half-sisters – Kristie, Jess and Megan – and two older half-brothers Scott and Bobby.

The statement also contained tributes from Gabby’s relatives.

“Gabby was doted on by her whole family and everyone who knew her, including her little friends,” it said.

“She was mad for skipping, skating, dancing, music, nail varnish and make-up. She was a girly girl who loved pink and appreciated everything.

“She loved straightening her hair and was going to be a ‘hair straightener’ when she grew up!

“We are devastated at the loss of beautiful Gabby but would like to take a moment to thank everybody who has wished her well, those who loved her and those who never met her.”

The statement praised the emergency services and the staff at Birmingham Children’s Hospital and thanked them for their support.

Big sister Megan said: “My little sister was the most beautiful little girl in the world. When it was a rainy day her smile lit up the sky. When she danced and spun she looked like a beautiful princess.”

Gabby’s brother Bobby said: “I love you with all my heart, always have, always will, loved you once, love you still.”

Chris Grady, aged 41, of no fixed address, is due to appear at Worcester Crown Court on Thursday. He has been charged with the attempted murders of Ryan and Gabrielle Grady, but in light of Gabrielle’s death one of the charges is expected to be changed to murder.