Aberdeenshire crash driver named as Andrew McKay

By FRANK URQUHART
Published on 19/02/2013 16:13

THE teenage driver who was killed yesterday when his car left a rural road in Aberdeenshire and smashed into a tree has been named as Andrew MacKay, 18, from Dyce.

He died when his his black Vauxhall Corsa crashed on a bend at lunchtime on Monday on the B997 Fintray to Kintore road. Mr Mackay was alone in the vehicle.

The family of Andrew Mackay issued a poignant tribute through Grampian Police. And his devastated mother, Heather, said that, if any good could come from his tragic death, then she hoped it would make young drivers think more about safety on the roads.

The family said: “We are devastated by the loss of Andrew, who was a well loved young man, who enjoyed making people laugh and was a much-loved son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and great-cousin.

“Andrew, who grew up in Dyce and attended the primary and academy there, became life-long friends with Kyle, Doug and Deek, who knew him as Andy. He had a keen interest in anything with an engine and how they worked. A hard working young man, Andrew was training to become a mechanic at Kirkhill Auto, where he was a much loved employee.”

The statement continued: “Heather, his mother, is devastated by his death, but hopes some good can come of it if it makes other young drivers think more about their safety on the roads. His brother, Alan, and sister, Ashleigh, loved their brother very much and will find it hard to come to terms with his loss.

“The family would like to extend their thanks for all the comfort and support they have received and would like to request privacy to grieve for our boy.”

His sister was amongst those who posted tributes to the teenager on social working sites following his tragic death.

Ashleigh Mackay posted: “I have just lost someone really special to me - he meant the world to me Andrew Mackay - will miss you always and love you billions. Don’t know what I’m going to do without you.”

Danielle Westland, a friend of the teenager, said: “You are another angel taken from us, but you know what they say, only the best get taken away and that’s you for sure. Going to be truly missed by everyone, but I’ll keep on smiling for you cause I know you’re looking down on us all wanting us too be happy.

“So I’m going to stay strong, hold back the tears as much as I can and hold our memories in my heart.”