A young biker killed in a horrific crash has been described as a “lovely lad”.
Euan Slater was killed when his red 125cc bike collided with a silver Vauxhall Astra on the B9089 road between Burghead and Roseisle.
It is understood that the 21-year-old was heading towards his home in Elgin when the head-on collision occurred.
Emergency services were called to the scene, around half a mile north of the Roseisle Distillery, at 7.30pm on Friday.
The motorcycle was driven backwards about 80ft, against its own momentum, by the force of the crash and its front was badly smashed.
The Vauxhall Astra veered off the road into a patch of trees following the impact, showing severe damage to its front offside corner.
The male driver was taken to Dr Gray’s Hospital in Elgin for treatment but is not thought to be in a critical condition.
Flowers have since been laid at the scene, and Mr Slater’s friends and family took to social media over the weekend to pay tribute to him.
His brother, Kris McKenzie, said the pair of siblings were “never apart”.
Greig Strathdee described the former Lossiemouth High School pupil as a “fine lad”, and Sean Atkin added that Mr Slater was “a lovely lad”.
Scott Forrester said: “Rest in peace Euan bud.”
Friends have also launched a crowdfunding appeal to gather £2,500, which will be donated to a cause “that Euan loved”.
Members of Mr Slater’s family who stay in Hopeman were too upset to speak about the tragedy yesterday.
Elgin City South councillor, James Allan, said his young relatives in Lossiemouth had been left “devastated”.
He said: “My nephew was close friends with Mr Slater, and a lot of young people in Lossiemouth are very upset about what happened.
“This is especially tragic considering his age, and the time of year.
“It’s a terrible thing to happen at any time, but it will be really tough on the family as we are coming up to Christmas.”
Sergeant Steve Milne, appealed for any witnesses to come forward.
He said: “Firstly, our thoughts are with the friends and family of everyone involved with this tragic incident.
“I would appeal for anyone who was aware of a silver Vauxhall Astra or a 125cc motorcycle at about 7.30pm on Friday, on the B9089 between Roseisle to Burghead, road to
contact the police on 101.”
Pledges towards the collection can be made at www.gofundme.com/hn-taken-too-soon
