Tributes last night poured in for a “well-respected” north-east council worker killed in a horror crash on the region’s busiest road.
William George Buchan, of Peterhead, died when his white Ford Transit collided with a white Mercedes Vito van on the A90 Peterhead-Ellon road at Hatton.
The 48-year-old worked for Aberdeenshire Council’s waste department and was driving one of their vehicles at the time of the crash.
He was rushed to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary where he later died.
The 26-year-old driver of the Mercedes was also rushed to ARI suffering from serious injuries.
He was said to be in a stable condition last night and suffering from a broken pelvis.
The accident took place at about 10.45am on Thursday.
Last night, some of the most senior figures within the council spoke of their shock, adding colleagues were “devastated” by his death.
Director of infrastructure services, Stephen Archer, said: “It is with great sadness we have learned today of the death of a colleague in a road accident.
“George, as he liked to be known, had worked with our waste team for nearly five years and was well respected amongst his peers.
“Our thoughts go out to his friends and family and we will be working with his colleagues in order to provide all the support they need.”
The council’s chief executive, Jim Savege, said: “My heartfelt condolences go out to everyone who knew George, who worked with him, and to his family who will be left devastated.
“We will do everything in our power to support them and are working with colleagues in the waste team at this emotionally difficult time.”
Police are appealing for witnesses to the fatal crash.
Sergeant Colin Matheson said: “Our thoughts are with Mr Buchan’s family and friends at this very sad time.
“I am appealing once again to anyone who may have seen either of the vehicles prior to the collision, or who saw the incident itself and who has not yet come forward, to do so as soon as possible. You can contact Police on 101.”
The road was closed for more than six hours following the incident.
The Vito van had the logo of Integral UK – an independent provider of mechanical, electrical and fabric maintenance services – on its side.
