Tributes paid to 18-year-old killed in tractor collision

An 18-year-old woman has died after a collision involving her car and a tractor and trailer in the Scottish Borders.

Caroline Taylor-Smith from Duns, Berwickshire, suffered serious injuries when her Fiat Panda collided with the tractor and trailer on the A6105 near Chirnside, Berwickshire at 1.45pm on Monday 1 June.

Ms Taylor-Smith was attended by a trauma team and airlifted to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary but she died from her injuries on Wednesday evening (3 June).

Friends and staff at The Borders College where the teenager was studying for a horse care qualification, have paid tribute.

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Course tutor Alison Robertson said: “Caroline was a kind and caring student and always willing to help her fellow classmates. She will be sadly missed by both staff and students at Borders College.”

In order to support both students and staff, the college has made available professional counsellors, who will be available to offer appropriate support should it be required.

On Facebook Victoria Coia, a workmate of Ms Taylor-Smith’s, described her as a beautiful wee lassie. “She was so full of life and brought joy to me and many others in our workplace,” Ms Coia said.

And college friend Jasmine Bellingham added: “We will never forget your gorgeous smile and great banter and how you always cheered everyone up.”

Meanwhile Police Scotland is continuing with its investigation into the incident.

A spokesman called for any witnesses to contact Police Scotland on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

The driver of the tractor is understood to have been unhurt.