Community pays respect to fatal accident victims
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TRIBUTES have been paid to two victims of recent road accidents in Ross.
On Wednesday Alness woman Margaret Macbeath (73), known as Moira, died when her Vauxhall Corsa was involved in a collision with a Citroen Picasso and a Toyota Hilux south of the A9 Evanton junction.
None of the other drivers or passengers were seriously injured. The incident, at about midday, closed the road in both directions until after 6pm.
A campervan left the road on a diversionary route between Dingwall and Evanton and police thanked everyone caught up in the resulting traffic tailbacks for their patience.
Sergeant Donnie Mackinnon said: "Our thoughts are very much with Moira’s family and friends at this sad time."
Local councillor Carolyn Wilson yesterday said her thoughts were with the family, describing it as "a terrible tragedy".
She also paid tribute to the patience of drivers stuck in long tailbacks and to businesses and well-wishers who offered help with water and food on what was a sweltering hot day.
On Facebook Mila Gabalina said: "It’s such sad news. Moira was a nice and lovely person. I still can’t believe it. Thoughts with her family."
Deborah Ritchie said: "So sad. RIP Moira. She was a lovely lady, thoughts are with the family."
There was also thanks from many of the drivers caught up in the road closure after local businesses and residents stepped in to help.
Suz Poloczek said: "I’d like to thank the folk in Dingwall offering water to motorists – me included."
Caroline Smart said: "I would like to thank the couple who let me use their toilet."
Meanwhile tributes have also been paid to Black Isle man Lachlan Tom Brown (21) who died following a collision on the A835 on Sunday.
The Killen driver’s blue Volkswagen Bora was involved in a collision with a Peugeot Boxer van on the road west of Tarvie at around 6.25pm.
Mr Brown was taken to Raigmore Hospital in Inverness for treatment but died on Monday evening.
A female passenger from the car was also treated at Raigmore and has since been released. The male driver of the Peugeot van was assessed at the scene and did not require further treatment.
Stunned friends and well-wishers took to Facebook to express their respects.
"A loved soul has left this earth too soon," said Kerri-Ann Fraser.
Elaine Napier said: "So sorry to hear this sad, sad news. Love n hugs to all the family xxx".
Road policing Sergeant Gregor Hay said: "Our thoughts are with Lachlan’s family and friends at this very sad time."
Enquiries into both incidents are ongoing and anyone with information can call Police Scotland on 101.
