Families 'devastated' following triple tragedy, as three named following motorcycle crash
Last updated 1st Aug 2024
The frontman of a Dire Straits cover band has been named as one of the victims of a motorcycle crash which claimed three lives in the Scottish Borders.
Andrew Lartey has been described as "an absolute gentleman" and "the most humble human being" in a tribute posted on the group's official page.
It's understood the 30-year-old was riding with his 23-year-old girlfriend, Georgia Tate, on the A6088 road, between Chesters and the Carter Bar, when their bike was involved in a collision with another motorcycle travelling in the opposite direction.
The pair, both from Newcastle, died at the scene, along with the other rider - a man, aged 37. He's been named as Jason Gibbon, from Northumberland.
In a statement released through Police Scotland, Andrew and Georgia's families say: “We are devastated by the loss of Georgia and Andrew, they will be sorely missed by all who knew them. We ask for our privacy to be respected at this difficult time.”
Details have emerged of how passers-by stopped on the route, which is popular with touring bikers, to comfort the casualties while they waited for the emergency services to arrive.
The tragedy unfolded on a bend at the end of two long straight sections of road.
Jason was riding a Suzuki GSXR when it was involved in a collision with a Kawasaki ZX1400 being ridden by Andrew and Georgia.
In a statement, Jason's family say: "We are devastated of the loss of a much loved son, brother, uncle, boyfriend and devoted friend to many.
"He will be greatly, sadly missed. We are comforted by the messages from many."
Investigations into the cause of the crash are continuing and police are appealing for anyone with information to contact them.
Sergeant Barry Sommerville, from Police Scotland, said: “Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of the three people who died.
“Our enquiries are ongoing and we continue to appeal for anyone with information that could help to please get in touch."
Anyone who can help is asked to call Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 2028 of July 28th, 2024.
Andrew's band has announced they plan to refund fans for upcoming shows.
In a tribute posted on The Straits UK's Facebook page, a band spokesperson said: "Andrew was the most humble human being you are ever likely to meet, and never ever thought he was anything special....HE WAS!
"He fulfilled a 35 year dream of mine to play in a Dire straits Tribute Band, and I will forever be grateful to him and the rest of the band members for making the dream live.
"I would like to pay tribute to him, not only as his father but as a fellow band member. He practiced long and hard striving for perfection in what was a very difficult task (...copying Mark Knopfler), and I think he achieved that!
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"The Straits UK were not just a band though, we are/were a family...a family that is now struggling to come to terms with this tragic event. We had a very emotional gathering yesterday. Andrew and Georgia will be missed by all those that knew them."
And, the statement adds: "We obviously weren't aware at the time, but those of you that seen us in Ormskirk on Saturday night witnessed our very last performance."
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Meanwhile, an obituary which has appeared online describes Georgia as “a vibrant and adventurous young woman, full of life and dreams”
It goes on: “As a pillion passenger, she enjoyed the thrill of the ride and the beauty of the open road.
“Georgia’s infectious smile, kind heart, and joyful spirit made her a beloved friend and family member.
“Moreover, survived by her loving family and friends, who will forever remember her warmth, generosity, and the light she brought into their lives.”
And it adds: “Georgia’s sudden passing has left an immense void in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.”
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