A woman has died after a motorbike crash on one of the North-east’s most popular tourist routes.
The 69-year-old, from Brazil, was a pillion passenger on the BMW 1200 GS motorcycle when the crash happened at around 5.35pm yesterday on the A939 Lecht to Tomintoul road.
A man, who was also on the motorbike, was airlifted to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary with serious injuries. The occupants of a black Nissan Navara 4×4 were not injured.
Police today appealed for witness to the accident.
Road Policing Sergeant Rob Warnock said: “My thoughts, and that of my officers, are very much with the family and friends of the female who sadly died in this collision.
“Several people witnessed this incident and I am acutely aware that they, and others who assisted at the scene, have also been affected by the tragic circumstances. I would appeal to anyone who may have seen the crash or who may have seen either vehicle shortly beforehand and who hasn’t yet spoken with police to do so to help us piece together exactly what happened.”
Anyone with information who hasn’t yet come forward should contact Police Scotland on 101.
A campaign to make the road safer for motorcyclists was made in 2010 after a number of serious and fatal crashes.
In 2005, a 33-year-old man died when his Ford Fiesta left the road near Findron Farm.
And two years later a motorcyclist from Fife was killed near Gairnshiel Lodge, Ballater, after crashing with a Vauxhall Vectra.
Councillor Peter Argyle, who represents Aboyne, Upper Deeside and Donside, said: “It’s devastating news that it’s happened and my sympathy goes out to those it has affected.
“It is a route that is frequently used by motorcyclists.
“The council has been working to promote safety for road users and particularly motorcyclists.”