Motorcyclist dead after collision with tractor

The accident happened on the A72 near Clovenfords shortly before 7.20pm.

Road policing officers attended the A72 Cliff Road after receiving a report of a collision between a tractor, which was towing a trailer, and a dark coloured Kawasaki motorbike near the entrance for Caddonlee Farm.

Sadly, the motorcyclist, a 45-year-old man, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police are now appealing for witnesses and are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed this incident or either vehicle beforehand.

Sergeant Neil Inglis of the Divisional Road Policing Unit at Galashiels said: “Tragically another life has been lost in a collision on our roads.

“The next of kin have been informed and we are providing them with support at this difficult time.

“As a result of this incident a stretch of road between Clovenfords and Walkerburn was closed for around 10 hours to allow for collision investigation work to be carried out.

“From our enquiries thus far we understand the motorcycle had been travelling on the eastbound carriageway of the A72 before turning north at the Nest roundabout. The tractor appears to have been crossing the roadway in order to access a neighbouring field when the collision occurred.

“We’re still looking into the full set of circumstances that led up to this incident and today I urge anyone who saw either vehicle prior to the collision itself to come forward if not already done so.”

Those with relevant information are asked to contact police on 101 or alternatively the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.