A notorious north-east road was closed for more than 24 hours, following a horrific fireball crash which led to the death of a motorcyclist.
Police confirmed yesterday that a man was killed when his motorcycle collided with a van on the A980 Torphins to Raemoir Road, near Glassel, on Tuesday at about 2.45pm.
The accident took place about one mile east of Campfield Filling Station, and led to locals calling for traffic calming measures to make the route safer.
The stretch of road between Torphins and Banchory has been the scene of a number of fatal and serious collisions throughout the years.
Aberdeenshire Council closed the A980 between Raemoir Road and the scene of the accident for emergency repairs, following the crash, until 6pm last night.
A spokesman for the local authority confirmed it was ready to enter into discussions about making the route safer for motorists.
He said: “We are always happy to hear any suggestions for any road improvements in Aberdeenshire, particularly where they relate to road safety.”
Last night, he added: “The A980 Torphins-Raemoir Road had been expected to remain closed today and tomorrow to allow carriageway repairs following a road traffic collision.
“Roads crews have completed the work ahead of schedule, hopefully minimising inconvenience to road users.”
Both vehicles were found ablaze when firefighters arrived at the scene. Two men, who were travelling in the van, were not injured during the accident.
A police spokeswoman said: “We can confirm that the person who died in yesterday’s road traffic collision on the A980 near Glassel was a male motorcyclist.
“The A980 was closed between the Raemoir House Hotel and Torphins for approximately eight hours to allow collision investigation to take place.
Investigating officer, sergeant Stephen Milne of the Aberdeen Road Policing Unit, said: “This was a very tragic incident and we are still piecing together exactly what happened.
“I would appeal for anyone who saw the collision who have not yet spoken to us to contact us with any information that they may have.”
Anyone with information should contact Police Scotland on 101 or the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 should they wish to remain anonymous.
