First Minister offers tributes to Perth doctor lost in River Spey tragedy

57-year-old Dr Julia Hamilton had worked at Whitefriars Green Practice in Perth since 1994

The First Minister is among those who have paid tribute to the outdoor enthusiast
Published 3rd Jun 2024

First Minister John Swinney is among those who have paid tribute to a doctor who died following a paddleboard accident.

Police were called to the River Spey near Aviemore on Friday following reports of concern for a woman on a paddle-board.

Other emergency services attended but Dr Julia Hamilton, 57, died at the scene.

Dr Hamilton was described as a "well-loved colleague" in a statement from Whitefriars Green Practice in Perth, where she had worked since 1994.

Mr Swinney - the local MSP - said: "I am terribly sorry to read this news and extend my sympathy to the family, colleagues and patients of Dr Hamilton."

The statement from the practice said: "Dr Hamilton was an outdoor enthusiast and her family have derived great comfort that she passed away doing something she loved in a place that was very special to her.

"Dr Hamilton had been a partner in the practice since 1994 and was a well-loved colleague and friend who was devoted to the care of our patients.

"We appreciate this news, as it was to us, is a great shock to you all."

A book of condolence, the statement added, would be opened in the practice.

A spokesman for Police Scotland said: "Around 11.45am on Friday May 31, we were called to a report of concern for a woman on a paddleboard in the River Spey, near to Aviemore.

"Emergency services attended, however the 57-year-old woman died at the scene.

"There are not believed to any suspicious circumstances and inquiries are ongoing."

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