The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Tributes to ‘lovely’ cyclist hit by lorry
A Perth neighbourhood has been rocked by the tragic death of a “lovely woman” following a fatal crash at the weekend.
Cyclist Margaret Lowden died after a collision with a lorry in Main Street, Bridgend, on Saturday, near the guest house she ran with her husband, Tom.
Stunned residents paid tribute to the grandmother, thought to be in her 70s, who was often seen cycling in the area.
Irene Howsam, who lives near the Lowdens’ Ackinnoul Guest House on Pitcullen Crescent, said she had known the dead woman and her husband for more than 30 years.
“Margaret was a lovely woman, and they were a lovely couple,” she said. “It’s an awful shock. I’m very sad about it.
“Her life seemed to centre round her guests and her family. It was nice to see her with her grandchildren.
“I liked her very much. It’s sad when you hear about a tragedy like this in any circumstances, but it really hits home when it’s someone you know.” Another Bridgend resident, who asked not to be named, added: “You would always see her out on her bike, sometimes three or four times a day She would never pass you without a wave and a pleasant smile. It’s absolutely tragic.”
Another neighbour said: “I really liked Margaret. We got on very well.
“I saw her most days, and I really can’t believe it. It’s so sad.”
Floral tributes have been placed near the scene of the accident which happened just before noon on Saturday, as well as reflective bands from Cycling Scotland.
The tragedy has sparked calls for a road safety review throughout Perth.
Yesterday, Bridgend residents Christopher and Andrea Cooke wrote to Perth and Kinross Council, asking for action before there is another death.
Their letter, seen by The Courier, said: “We were very distressed to learn of the tragic death of one of our neighbours on Saturday.
“She cycled on a regular and longtime basis, from all appearances with confidence and skill. The traffic in Bridgend needs to be managed to result in greater safety for all.
“There are many pedestrians and families with children on foot or using buggies. There are also many pensioners as well as wheelchair users and dog walkers.
“Add this to heavy traffic, including HGVs, and it results in a recipe for disaster, which was the case for the unfortunate woman on her bike.”
The couple are asking for a 20mph speed limit through Bridgend and for one of the footpaths on West Bridge Street to be dedicated to cyclists.
The letter continued: “Please act on this issue before there is further loss of life. The growing freight on this road from Scone and through Bridgend, combined with the excessive speed of drivers, can only lead to further injury and/or fatalities.”
The accident was one of two fatalities on Perth and Kinross roads at the weekend. A woman died following a crash on the A9 near Dalnaspidal on Sunday.