Tributes pour in for accident victim who was ‘one in a million’

Perthshire motorcyclist died after he collided with a minibus

Tributes have been paid to a Perthshire motorcyclist who was killed in an accident on the outskirts of Dundee.

Steven Critchley, 49, who died after colliding with a minibus on Wednesday was described as “one in a million” and “a lovely guy” by those who knew him.

The accident happened on the A923 Dundee to Coupar Angus Road at the turn-off to Fowlis at around 12.20pm.

Mr Critchley, a driver, lived in the tiny hamlet of Forneth, between Blairgowrie and Dunkeld, with his partner, Rachel Barber.

“He was loved and well-known to a lot of people, we had been together for eight years,” she said.

“He’s left a huge hole behind, he was a safe rider of motorbikes and had no points on his licence, he didn’t like seeing the young lads racing around risking everyone’s lives.

“He was a lovely guy, liked by a lot of people and touched the lives of a lot people – he would have done anything for anyone.”

Mr Critchley, who was originally from Cardiff, moved to the area with his partner nearly three years ago.

He had been in the process of teaching her to drive and on the day of the accident had been visiting friends.

Councillor Grant Laing, who lives in Spittalfield, knew Mr Critchley and described him as “friendly and chatty”.

“I am shocked, obviously it is a big blow to his family and friends,” he said.

Mr Critchley’s friends also paid tribute to him on social media with Colin Carnduff saying: “Stevie was one of the most laid back guys that I have spent time with and will be sorely missed.”

Many expressed their condolences to his family and Lynn Mcarthur described him as “one in a million” adding “never came across a truer nicer man”.

The police investigation into the accident is still under way and they have appealed for anyone who can help to contact them.

“Inquiries into the full set of circumstances of the incident are on-going and Tayside Division would appeal for anyone who may have information that could assist officers with their inquiries to contact Tayside Division on 101,” said a police spokesperson.

“As with all sudden deaths a report has been submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.”

Steven Critchley’s death has left a “huge hole”, his partner said.