Tributes paid to 'amazing grandparents' following fatal crash on A1
The collision also claimed the life of their beloved pet dog...
Last updated 19th Jan 2026
Tributes are being paid to a Berwick couple who died after their car was involved in a collision with a heavy goods vehicle on the A1.
Christine and Stephen Routledge - who were both aged in their 60s - have been described as “loving and generous” grandparents, who touched the lives of many.
It has since emerged the couple's dog, Bear, who was with them in the Skoda at the time of the crash also died from his injuries.
Police say a man in his 30s arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous following the incident last week has been released under investigation.
It was reported that the HGV was travelling north when it collided with the Skoda and an Audi car, which were both on the southbound carriageway.
Emergency services rushed to the scene, near Buckton, after the alarm was raised around 7.40am on Wednesday.
Stephen, who was 64, passed away at the scene, while Christine, who was 66, was taken to hospital with serious injuries but later passed away.
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In a statement released by Northumbria Police, their family say: “Our parents were loving, generous, and deeply devoted to our family. They were the foundation of our lives – always offering support, guidance, and unconditional love.
“They were amazing grandparents to our 10 children who are going to miss them deeply.
“Their sudden passing in a car accident with their dog Bear who they loved very much has left a profound emptiness that words cannot fully express.
“They lived with kindness and integrity, touching the lives of many through their warmth and selflessness.
“While we are devastated by this loss, we are grateful for the memories, values, and love they gave us, which will continue to guide us every day. We are comforted by the fact they are all together."
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The drivers of both the HGV and the Audi were also taken to hopistal for treatment to their injuries and have since been discharged.
Police are appealing to anyone with information to contact them.
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Sergeant Dave Roberts, of Northumbria Police, said: “Our thoughts remain with the family and loved ones of Mr and Mrs Routledge at this devastating time. We continue to offer them any support we can.
“Thank you to everyone who has so far provided information towards our investigation, which is very much ongoing.
“If you do have details which could assist us in our enquiries, please get in touch so that we can ascertain exactly what took place and provide Mr and Mrs Routledge’s family with the answers they deserve.”
Anybody with information or footage of the moments leading up to the collision should send Northumbria Police a direct message on social media, or by using live chat and report forms on the Force’s website.
Those unable to make contact in these ways can call 101 - quoting reference number: NP-20260114-0160.
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