A young dad killed in a horror crash while driving home from work has been remembered as a “gem of a boy”.
Christopher Newlands, 34, was driving home to Buckie along the A98 road from Fochabers on Friday when his car struck a tree near the Swiss Cottage holiday let.
Buckie councillor, Gordon Cowie, knew the father-of-two and yesterday said that much of the town had been left shocked by his sudden death.
Mr Cowie said: “I knew Mr Newlands personally and he was just a gem of a boy.
“He was a family man whose life was just starting, and was looking forward to bringing up his children.
“This is another young life lost on our roads, and it is a disaster for the family.”
It is understood that Mr Newlands worked in Elgin with the QHS Scotland construction firm, and had been returning home in his silver Ford Fiesta when the crash took place.
Mr Cowie added: “He was such a level-headed young guy, and so liked and respected in Buckie.
“My condolences go to his immediate family.”
Meanwhile, well-wishers took to social media to pay tribute to Mr Newlands.
Judith Mcpherson said: “Such sad news, a classmate years back at Millbank. Thinking of family and friends at this heartbreaking time. ”
Billy Duncan said: “Thoughts with all family at this difficult time. So gutted by this news, another good one taken far too soon.”
Abi Grant described the young dad as “a cracking lad” while Melissa Smith said he was “such a god guy”.
Police and paramedics were called to the stretch of the A98 at 4pm on Friday, and a stretch of the route between Fochabers and Buckie remained closed late into the night while investigations were carried out.
A spokesman for the force said: “Our thoughts at this difficult time remain with his family and friends.”
Moray MP Douglas Ross said that the “significant rainfall” on Friday may have made driving conditions difficult at the time of the crash.
He added: “This is extremely sad news.”
Moray MSP Richard Lochhead added: “My thoughts are with the loved ones and friends of the gentleman involved.”
Police have confirmed that an inquiry into the incident is continuing and urged anyone with information to get in touch.
People should contact the police on 101 quoting incident number 2789 if they have any information to pass on.