Her father, Nathan Rowe, expressed relief at the recent sentencing of the owner for breaching health and safety laws, describing it as "a massive weight to be lifted off our shoulders."
Curt Johnson, the owner, and his company, Johnsons Funfair Ltd, were found guilty of two counts of breaching health and safety laws. Johnson was sentenced to six months in prison and disqualified from being a company director for five years, while his firm was fined £20,000 and ordered to pay £300,000 in costs.
Rowe mentioned the ongoing challenges for the family, particularly in visiting beaches which Ava-May enjoyed, as it brings back painful memories. He stressed the importance of justice in this case, not only for their family but to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
He also noted the Health and Safety Executive's efforts to close loopholes in legislation and mentioned talks with the local council about auctioning a piece of Banksy art to fund a tribute for Ava-May. The family's loss has been profound, with Rowe describing Ava-May as someone who "just wanted to explore" and was a "breath of fresh air."