A Haydon Bridge family has paid tribute to Doreen Flatman, who died after a two-vehicle collision on the A69 between Haydon Bridge and Hexham.
Ms Flatman, 76, was travelling as a rear-seat passenger in a blue Volkswagen Tiguan when it was involved in the crash on September 26. Emergency services attended, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Northumbria Police said a black Honda ENY1 travelling westbound collided with the Volkswagen, which was travelling eastbound. The Volkswagen’s driver and front-seat passenger both suffered serious injuries.
Tribute to Doreen Flatman
Doreen, who was from Haydon Bridge, was remembered by her family as a much-loved mother and friend.
“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.
“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.”
The family’s tribute was issued on Monday, as they described the loss as tragic and said the memories of Doreen would remain with them.
Man charged over A69 collision
Daniel Porter, 35, of Angate Street, Wolsingham, in the Bishop Auckland area of County Durham, has been charged in connection with the crash.
He faces charges of causing death by dangerous driving, two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, driving while unfit through drink or drugs and possessing a class A drug. Police said he has also been charged in a separate matter with two counts of breaching a sexual risk order.
Porter appeared before the court and was remanded in custody until his next hearing at Newcastle Crown Court on November 2.
Police appeal for witnesses
Sergeant Greg Huntley, of Northumbria Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said officers continued to support Doreen’s family and friends. He urged people not to speculate while the legal process was ongoing.
Witnesses to the September 26 collision, or anyone with information that could assist the investigation, can contact Northumbria Police by direct message on social media or through the force’s live chat and report forms. Anyone unable to use those options should call 101 and quote reference number NP-20260926-0535.
