Tributes have been paid to a teenager tragically killed in a horror smash in Caithness.
Young carer and talented dancer Lauren Miller, 18, from Thurso, suffered fatal injuries after her white Citroen DS2 car was in collision with another car on Monday night.
The accident happened on the A882 at around 8.30pm as both vehicles were travelling east towards Wick.
The male driver of the Peugeot 207 was unhurt in the crash.
Two fire crews, police and ambulance paramedics rushed to the scene. The road was blocked overnight as investigations into the crash were carried out. Motorists used diversions via Newton Hill and Haster.
The teenager was a member of the Edge Dance Studio, set up and run by her father Willie.
Alice Riddell, support and development manager for Thurso-based Key Housing, where the teenager was employed, said: “Lauren was one of our youngest team members and had been with us for just over a year.
“She was a great worker who enjoyed a fantastic rapport with her fellow team members and was much loved by everyone we support locally.
“We are utterly devastated by the news of her death and are keeping her family, friends and everyone who knew her best in our thoughts during this incredibly sad and difficult time.”
Caithness civic leader Willie Mackay also knew the teenager personally, saying she was a “very cheery and attentive” young woman.
The councillor had on several occasions seen her dance and he said it was clear she was a very talented performer.
He added: “This is yet another life that has been lost too early.
“This is something we don’t want to happen any time but with Christmas approaching, it’s even more tragic.”
Road Policing Sergeant Donnie Mackinnon said: “Our thoughts are with the young woman’s family and friends at this difficult time.
“We are working to establish the full circumstances of this collision and would ask anyone with information who has not yet spoken to police to contact us.
“We would be keen to hear from anyone who believes they have seen these vehicles on the road prior to the collision or who may have dashcam footage.”
The tragedy came just over a week after 19-year-old Dounreay worker Connor Cook died when his car crashed on an unclassified road, near Hill of Forss.