St Neots swimming club founder remembered after fatal collision
St Neots swimming coach Linda Ashley-Davidson, 73, died in a collision in Huntingdonshire last month
Last updated 8 hours ago
The family of, a 73-year-old woman from Eynesbury, has paid tribute to her after she died following a collision in Huntingdonshire last month.
Linda Ashley-Davidson was a passenger in a Renault Grand Modus Dynamique that collided with a DAF lorry on the B1040 Potton Road, Abbotsley, at 11.52am on 29th June.
She was taken to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge, where she passed away the following day.
Her family said: “Linda was well known in St Neots after being the founder and chief coach of St Neots Swans Swimming Club for 35 years. She also coached at Kimbolton School.
“Linda is survived by her husband, four children and seven grandchildren.”
The driver of the Renault, an 84-year-old man from Eynesbury, was also taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries and remains there.
The 46-year-old driver of the lorry from Sandy, Bedfordshire, was not injured in the collision.
Tributes from the Community
Further heartfelt tributes have been shared, highlighting Linda Ashley-Davidson’s lasting impact on the swimming community.
The St Neots Swans Swimming Club expressed sorrow over the loss of Linda, noting her unexpected passing and acknowledging her contributions. "Linda was Head Coach for more than 25 years and in that time took the Club from just a handful of swimmers to a strong and competitive Club … Linda’s legacy at the Club will last an eternity."
Other members of the community shared their personal memories of Linda’s influence.
“She was such an amazing person and gave so much to so many. Once you were one of her Swans you were one of her kids and she looked out for you," said one individual.
Another community member remembered Linda's inspiration, stating, "A swimming coach is so much more than someone teaching you. Linda fulfilled this role perfectly."
"She played a huge part in our sporting childhood — but has etched incredible memories into the lives of so many people in St Neots over the years," reflected another.
Others praised Linda's dedication to bringing out the best in the swimmers at the club and recalled her ability to remember former students even years after teaching them.
Police Investigation
Police officers are continuing their investigation into the circumstances of the collision.
Witnesses, or anyone with relevant dashcam footage, are encouraged to come forward.
Those with information can contact police online and reference Operation Sparrow or incident 221 of 29th June.
Alternatively, contact can be made by calling 101.