Gran dies as she tries to rescue her pet dog from river
Family left stunned by loss of popular business owner
A PET owner died trying to save her beloved dog from a fast-flowing burn.
Restaurant owner Margaret Wares is believed to have been trying to rescue her 16-year-old Jackadoodle Dizzee at the Dighty Burn in Monifieth, Angus.
She had left the house for her regular evening stroll on Wednesday but did not return, leading husband Colin to raise the alarm.
The 70-year-old was found in the water not far from her home by emergency services shortly after. Her pet remains missing.
Her daughter Susie Johnson said the family are still trying to process what happened. She added: ‘The unfortunate circumstances surrounding her death have come as an utter shock to the whole family and community.
‘She had taken her usual evening walk along the path of the Dighty Burn and it is thought the dog had fallen into the swollen river.
‘Being the devoted owner she was, she tried to rescue him and got into difficulty.’
Mrs Johnson said: ‘The family wish for all those who knew and loved Margaret to remember her for all her unique qualities and ability to brighten up the darkest of days.
‘Described as one in a million and a rare diamond, she will be deeply missed by family, friends and all those who knew her.’
Floral tributes have been laid outside her popular business The Laird’s Larder on Monifieth High Street.
Police say inquiries into the circumstances of Mrs Wares death are continuing and a report will be submitted to the procurator fiscal.
Mrs Wares, who grew up in Monifieth, was well known locally for her various businesses and interests over the years.
Alongside older brothers Gordon and Ian, she was an active member of the St Rule’s Youth Group for many years, where she made many of her lifelong friends.
She was often seen walking Dizzee and the couple’s other dog Billy along the beach and on the Dighty’s network of paths.
Once a veterinary assistant, she and her husband later ran CWG Recruitment from Custom House in Dundee providing advice, training and employment for those out of work.
Mrs Wares, a talented artist and cook, opened The Laird’s Larder in Monifieth almost 12 years ago alongside friend Shona Gibb, shortly followed by The Coffee Pot. The popular businesses ran side by side for many years.
Husband of 42 years, Colin, was the manager of Monifieth Boys’ Football Club for many years while son Colin Jr was a player.
Mrs Wares was tirelessly on the sideline supporting the players and offering words of encouragement.
Colin Jr, who now lives in Australia, said: ‘Mum will live on in our hearts and minds and will forever be at the heart of our family. Her selfless nature is one that we all admire and aim to live up to.
‘A true inspiration, she taught us all so much and her positivity, determination and lust for life will be reflected and live on through her children and grandchildren.’
As well as husband Colin, and children Susie and Colin, Mrs Wares is survived by her grandchildren, Ellie, Maisie and Kai.
The tragedy comes after a man died earlier this month when he fell through a frozen pond trying to rescue his dog.
Iain Morrell was airlifted to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary following the incident at the curling pond at Kinneil House, in Bo’ness, West Lothian.
Emergency services were called to the scene, where the 66-year-old and pet Simba were pulled from the water, but Mr Morrell died hours later.
Talented artist and cook