Family tribute to Countess of Dysart killed in A9 crash

Tributes have been paid to a much-loved Highland community figure who has died in a crash on the A9.

Philippa Grant, the Countess of Dysart, was driving an Audi A4 which collided with a coach at Slochd, near Aviemore, on Friday. She died at the scene.

Ms Grant, 73, and her husband Johnnie built up the Rothiemurchus estate as a tourist attraction for its outdoor activities and wildlife conservation.

Her family said she was a "life force who will be hugely missed".

Ms Grant was also a board figure at Maggie's cancer charity and was awarded an MBE for services to NHS Scotland.

"Philippa was a fun and loving mother and grandmother," her family said in a statement.

"She will be so fondly remembered for the energy and enthusiasm that she ploughed into a career that spanned business, charity and tourism whilst bringing up a family."

The collision between Ms Grant's car and a white Volvo B12 single decker occurred at about 19:45 on Friday

Eight passengers from the coach were taken to Raigmore Hospital in Inverness where they were treated for minor injuries and later released.

Sgt Neil MacDonald said: "Our thoughts are very much with Philippa's family at this very difficult time.

"Our investigation to establish the full circumstances of what happened is ongoing and we are appealing to anyone who can assist, who has not already spoken to officers, to please get in touch."