THE family of a much-loved woman who died following a collision in Northumberland have paid tribute.

Catherine Elford, of Haltwhistle, died following a three-vehicle collision on the A69 single carriageway between the junctions of Hexham (West) and Haydon Bridge on Thursday, November 30.

It was reported that a grey Mazda 3 had been travelling eastbound and collided with a silver Skoda Fabia that was travelling westbound.

The Skoda is then understood to have collided with a black Land Rover Discovery that was travelling eastbound.

Emergency services attended where sadly Mrs Elford, 68, who was a passenger in the Skoda, and an 81-year-old male passenger from the Mazda, suffered life-threatening injuries.

Despite best efforts of medical staff, they passed away at the scene.

The identity of the 81-year-old has not been released.

Mrs Elford's family shared a heartfelt tribute to her, which said: “Catherine Elford – a much loved wife, mother and grandmother who tragically passed away.

“She is survived by her husband, three children and five grandchildren.

“Gone, but never forgotten.”

The drivers from the Skoda and Mazda were taken to hospital for treatment with non-life-threatening injuries.

The road was closed in both directions for a number of hours and an investigation was launched by the police’s motor patrols team to establish the full circumstances surrounding the collision.

Officers have already spoken with a number of witnesses. However, they would encourage anyone else who is yet to come forward to get in touch with police.

They are especially interested in hearing from anyone who was travelling in the area at the time and may have dashcam or CCTV footage.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police using the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of the Northumbria Police website, or call 101, quoting log number NP-20231130-0833.