Haltwhistle grandmother killed in car crash on A69, Hexham

Catherine Elford, 68, died after a three-vehicle collision on the A69 single carriageway between the junctions of Hexham and Haydon Bridge.

It was reported that a grey Mazda 3 had been travelling eastbound when it collided with a silver Skoda Fabia that was travelling westbound.

The Skoda is then understood to have collided with a black Land Rover Discovery that was travelling eastbound.

Ms Elford, from Haltwhistle, who was a female passenger in the Skoda, and an 81-year-old male passenger from the Mazda, both suffered life-threatening injuries and died at the scene.

Catherine’s family has now shared a heartfelt tribute to her, which said: “Catherine Elford – a much loved wife, mother and grandmother who tragically passed away.

“She is survived by her husband, three children and five grandchildren.

“Gone, but never forgotten.”

Both families continue to receive support from specially trained officers at this difficult time.
The drivers from the Skoda and Mazda were taken to hospital for treatment with non-life-threatening injuries.

The driver of the Mazda remains in hospital in a serious but stable condition, while the driver of the Skoda has since been discharged.

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An investigation was launched by the Northumbria Police to establish the full circumstances surrounding the collision.
A force spokesperson said: “Officers have already spoken with a number of witnesses.

“However, they would encourage anyone else who is yet to come forward to get in touch with police.
“They are especially interested in hearing from anyone who was travelling in the area at the time and may have dashcam or CCTV footage.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police using the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of the Northumbria Police website, or call 101, quoting log number NP-20231130-0833.