‘Lived life on their own terms’: Couple killed in Highland A9 crash named as tributes celebrate pair

A couple who died in a car crash on the A9 have been named.

Paddy Davidson and his partner Hazel Allan were killed after their white Land Rover Defender crashed on the Inverness to Thurso road at Achavanich, shortly after 11.30am on Tuesday.

Both driver Mr Davidson, from Garve, but is understood to have originally been from the Aberdeen area, and his passenger Ms Allan, from Thurso, were pronounced dead at the scene.

The road was closed for nearly 10 hours while collision investigation works were carried out. The couple’s car was the only vehicle involved. 

Following the shocking accident, tributes to the pair have been appearing on social media.

Family write heartfelt tributes

Hazel Allan’s daughter, Freya Allan Scrimshaw, wrote: “I don’t even know what to say, my mum was the best person in my life, she’s helped me through everything and I’m gonna miss talking up in my room for hours on end about everything and anything.

“I’m gonna miss the way we would banter, I’m gonna miss the way you hugged me, I’m gonna miss everything about you, always and forever mum, I love you.

“Paddy was such a great man, I don’t think I’ve ever met a person so good before, Paddy inspired me so much, and was like a second dad to me. I’m gonna miss him so much, I’ll make sure to take the best care of your dogs and keep your name going in the gamekeeping world, I love you.”

Scotland’s military motorcyle club for serving and ex-service personnel, Brothers in Arms Motorcycle Club also paid tribute on social media.

They wrote: “It is with the deepest sadness and regret that we must say farewell to our brother and secretary Paddy Davidson and his beautiful partner Hazel C. Allan.

“This tragedy has left our club devastated, but our pain is insignificant in comparison to both Paddy and Hazel’s families.

“Our heartfelt condolences are extended to both families at this terrible time. Both Paddy and Hazel lived life on their own terms and were deeply loved for exactly who they were. You are sorely missed, our brother and sister.”

Paddy Davidson’s mother, Lorne Davidson wrote on social media: “Paddy was the only grandchild my Irish dad knew. They had a special rapport. Sadly my dad died when Paddy Davidson was two.

“Paddy always loved to rummage around. Imagine the surprise when he appeared trying to wear my Dad’s false teeth. ‘He won’t need them anymore’.”

Condolences pour in from social media

Other tributes have also been pouring in on social media.

Yvonne Gilfillan wrote: “Never a dull moment, never an empty dance floor – heartbreaking news. Sending condolences and much love to all family (biological and biking), friends and acquaintances.”

Royal Navy Veterans Motorcycle Club wrote: “Sincerest condolences to club and families.”

Heather McArthur commented: “Heartbreaking news. Condolences and love to both Paddy and Hazel’s family and friends. Absolutely tragedy and two vibrant lives taken far too soon.”

Police are still looking for anyone with dashcam footage from the area at the time of the accident to come forward by quoting reference 1064 of November 29.

Sergeant Calum MacAulay said: “Our thoughts remain with Patrick and Hazel’s families at this very difficult time.

“Our inquiries remain ongoing to establish the full circumstances and I would urge anyone who may be able to help and hasn’t yet spoken to police to come forward.”