The family of a 76-year-old Haydon Bridge woman who died in a crash on the A69 between Haydon Bridge and Hexham have remembered her as a “much-loved mam” and “the life and soul of every room”.
Doreen Flatman died after a two-vehicle collision on Saturday, September 26. She was travelling as a rear-seat passenger in a blue Volkswagen Tiguan when the crash happened. Police said she was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver and front-seat passenger of the Volkswagen also suffered serious injuries. The other vehicle involved was a black Honda ENY1 travelling westbound, while the Volkswagen was travelling eastbound.
Family pays tribute
In a tribute, Doreen’s family described her as “the loveliest friend and woman anyone could ever hope to meet”. They said her kindness, warmth and generosity had left lasting memories, while describing her death as an “untimely passing” and a tragic loss.
“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.”
The family added that she would be deeply missed, but that the love she gave and the memories she left behind would remain with them.
Charges after investigation
Police were called shortly before 1.30pm on September 26 after receiving reports of the collision. Following an investigation, Daniel Porter, 35, of Wolsingham in the Bishop Auckland area of County Durham, was charged with causing death by dangerous driving.
He was also charged with two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, driving while unfit through drink or drugs and possessing a Class A controlled drug. In a separate matter, he was charged with two counts of breaching a sexual risk order.
Porter appeared at Newcastle Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, October 3, and was remanded in custody. He is due to appear next at Newcastle Crown Court on November 2.
Police appeal for information
Sgt Greg Huntley, from Northumbria Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said officers continued to support Doreen’s family and friends. He also urged people not to speculate while the legal process continued.
“To anyone who may have information which could assist the investigation, please get in touch with us.”
Anyone who witnessed the collision or has information that could assist the investigation is asked to contact Northumbria Police through social media, its website or by calling 101. Callers should quote reference NP-20260926-0535.
