A young football coach died in a horrific crash on a major north-east road yesterday.
Kieran Innes was travelling south on the A90 Aberdeen to Dundee road when his car left the road and overturned, just north of Forfar.
It is believed the 24-year-old, from Aberdeen, may have lain undiscovered in the overgrowth for some time until he was spotted by a farmer at about 7.45am.
As news of the tragedy spread online last night, tributes flooded in for the promising coach – led by his club, Middlefield Wasps.
The club, who have planned a minute’s applause before their games this weekend, said: “It’s with a heavy heart and tears in my eyes I write this, but today we lost our 2006 coach Kieran Innes in a car crash at the age of 24. Kieran also ran our disability football.
“He was a genuine nice guy and would do anything for anyone. He loved all his players who will miss him dearly. I had the honour of calling this man my mate.
“The Wasps family has lost a true gent who will be sorely missed. He loved the Wasps. Thoughts go to the Innes family.
“As a mark of respect we will be doing a minutes applause at each Wasps game this weekend, because Kieran didn’t do silence.”
Other friends and football colleagues also shared their memories.
David Macdonald wrote: “Still can’t get over this, so so sad to hear, my favourite memories of Kieran are back when I was just a kid and he referred to me as his project when we played football, my heart truly goes out to all his family and closest friends, R.I.P you gem.”
Stewart Ross added: “R.I.P Kieran, you hear about these things but it hits home how short life can be when it’s someone near you, great guy, thoughts go out to his family.”
And Dons legend Neil Simpson – who played for the Wasps prior to his professional career – tweeted: “RIP. Thoughts and prayers to all Kieran’s family and friends. #onceawaspalwaysawasp.”
The crash happened between the B957 Tannadice junction and the A926 leading to Quilkoe, on the southbound carriageway.
The silver car appeared to have gone off the road and up an embankment before landing upside down among the undergrowth.
It is understood the car may have lain undiscovered for some time as it was barely visible from the road.
The route was reduced down to one lane for several hours while accident investigators examined the scene.
A police spokesman said: “Next of kin have now been informed and formal identification will be carried out in due course.”
The force has also appealed for anyone who was on the road, and may have witnessed anything to come forward. Anyone with information should call 101.