'The sudden loss of our beloved dad, grandad, brother, uncle and husband is devastating'
Tributes paid to pensioner following crash as police appeal for information
Last updated 11th Nov 2025
The family of an 87-year-old man who died following a single-vehicle crash in Peebles last week say his death leaves "an immense void" in all their lives.
Phillip Rotherham - who has been described as "a quiet and thoughtful man, who loved nature" - was travelling in a silver Honda HR-V with his 80-year-old wife when tragedy struck in the town's Whitehaugh Park around 6.25pm on Thursday.
Emergency services raced to the scene after the alarm was raised. And both casualties were taken to hospital, where Mr Rotherham later died.
In a statement released by Police Scotland, his family said: “The sudden loss of our beloved dad, grandad, brother, uncle and husband is devastating.
"He lived a long life but, at an active 87, we feel he has left us too soon.
"As well as being an involved member of his community, Phillip was a quiet and thoughtful man who loved nature. Taking care of his garden and observing wildlife brought him great pleasure.
"He was also an avid reader, seeking solace and comfort in fiction. His kindness and care will be deeply missed and his absence leaves an immense void in all our lives."
And they added: “As a family, we’d like to thank the committed emergency services professionals who rushed to the scene and were able to save his beloved wife. We’d also like to extend our thanks to the local community for your compassion at this difficult time.”
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Police have confirmed an investigation to establish the full circumstances of the crash is ongoing, and officers are appealing to anyone with information to contact them.
Sergeant Philip Winning said: “Our thoughts remain with the family as we continue our enquiries into the collision.
“I’d like to ask anyone with information, who hasn’t already spoken to police, to please come forward. You can call Police Scotland on 101 quoting reference 3057 of November 6th.”
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