A heartbroken family has paid tribute to a “much-loved mam” who died after a crash on the A69 in Northumberland. Doreen Flatman, 76, tragically died following a two-vehicle collision on the road between Haydon Bridge and Hexham on September 26.
Police say a black Honda ENY1 car travelling westbound collided with a blue Volkswagen Tiguan travelling eastbound. Emergency services attended, but Ms Flatman, who was the rear-seat passenger of the Volkswagen, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Serious injuries and charges
The driver and front seat passenger of the Volkswagen also suffered serious injuries in the collision. A 35-year-old man was arrested and has now been charged in connection with the crash.
Daniel Porter, 35, of Angate Street, Wolsingham in the Bishop Auckland area of County Durham, has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving, two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, driving whilst unfit through drink or drugs and possessing a class A drug. In a separate matter, he has also been charged with two counts of breaching a sexual risk order, police say. Porter will appear at Newcastle Crown Court on November 2 and was remanded into custody until then.
Family tribute
In a tribute to Doreen, who was from Haydon Bridge, her family said: “Doreen was a much-loved mam, and the loveliest friend and woman anyone could ever hope to meet. She was truly the life and soul of every room she walked into, bringing warmth, laughter, and an unmistakable brightness to all our lives.”
They added: “Her kindness knew no bounds; she was the kind of person who would do anything for you without a second thought, always putting others first and giving her heart so generously. Her untimely passing is a tragic loss that leaves a deep and painful void. Words cannot fully express how sadly missed she will always be, but the boundless love she gave and the beautiful memories she left behind will stay with us forever.”
Police appeal
Sgt Greg Huntley, of Northumbria Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “The thoughts of everyone within Northumbria Police remain firmly with Doreen’s family and friends, who we are continuing to support at this extremely difficult time. Following a thorough investigation a person has been charged in this case and we would ask that members of the public avoid speculation and respect the ongoing legal process. To anyone who may have information which could assist the investigation, please get in touch with us.”
Witnesses to the collision on September 26 or anyone with information should send Northumbria Police a direct message on social media or use the live chat and report forms on the force’s website. Those unable to make contact via those ways should call 101 and quote reference number NP-20260926-0535.
