Tributes to Ruaridh McKay after boy killed by car

Tributes have been paid to Ruaridh McKay, the “kind, thoughtful, happy-go-lucky” seven-year-old who died following a collision with a car on Tuesday, just yards from the home of his grandparents.

Ruaridh, who was a pupil at Sacred Heart Primary School, was on the way to visit his grandparents in Dick Terrace just before 4pm when the tragic incident occurred.

It is believed that Ruaridh had left his mother’s car, which was parked on the other side of the street from the house, moments before he was struck by the blue 4x4.

Emergency services battled to save him, but he died of his injuries at the scene.

The driver of the vehicle is said to be helping police with their inquiries, though they have also appealed for anyone who witnessed the collision to come forward immediately.

Meanwhile, local council officials have offered their sympathy to Ruaridh’s family and support to his classmates and teachers.

Councillor Lisa Beattie, cabinet member for education at Midlothian Council, said: “I would like to offer my sincere sympathy to the family and friends of Ruaridh McKay. My heart goes out to the family and everyone in the school community after this tragic event.

“We will be doing all we can to offer support to pupils and teachers at the school.”

The Sacred Heart Primary School website shows a picture of Ruaridh taken in December 2011, when he came third in a school competition to design the school’s recycling mascot.

Headteacher Mary Durkacz said: “Ruaridh was a kind, thoughtful, happy-go-lucky boy who loved playing and drawing.

“Helpful and kind to adults and children alike, he was a true asset to our school community. He will be sadly missed by everyone.

“Our thoughts and prayers go Ruaridh’s family and friends.”

Derek Cosens, vice-chairman of the Penicuik and District Community Council, said: “This is the nightmare of any parent, and I feel so sorry for the family.

“I’m sure these feelings are shared by the wider Penicuik community, and people across Scotland – especially other parents, who will no doubt feel this most keenly. It’s an absolute tragedy when anyone, never mind someone so young and full of potential, loses their life in such terrible circumstances.”

The club president of the local football club also offered his condolences to the McKay family,

John Fraser, of Penicuik Athletic, said: “It’s extremely upsetting, very sad news indeed. We will certainly be discussing the possibility of some sort of tribute.”

While the investigation into the incident continues, residents have said that more could be done to protect children in the area in future.

One woman, who lives in nearby Loanburn Avenue, said: “I don’t know if anyone was at fault in this case. From what I’ve been told, it just sounds like one of those awful things, but there should be speed bumps on this street – a lot of people come down here far too quickly.”