Barrhead couple killed at racing rally

Driver David Carney's Citroen DS3 was involved in the accident which killed three and injured a further two. Picture: Anderson Drummond

Iain John Provan (64) and his partner Elizabeth Allan were positioned at the Little Swinton section of the rally in Berwickshire when the Citroen DS3 — driven by Ireland’s David Carney — veered out of control and ploughed into them.

A third man, from Bearsden, was also killed and another two injured as the rally — which was due to end on Sunday — was abandoned following the Saturday afternoon incident.

Around 250 competitors were taking part in the rally, which is seen as one of the UK’s largest and watched by thousands of spectators.

IR20140601. 01/06/14,. Fatal accident at the Jim Clark Memorial Rally, Little Swinton near Coldstream, Scottish Borders. Police SOCO officers at the scene where a rally car taking part in the Jim Clark Rally struck spectators, causing deaths and casualties. Picture Ian Rutherford.

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07710337520 — IR20140601. 01/06/14,. Fatal accident at the Jim Clark Memorial Rally, Little Swinton near Coldstream, Scottish Borders. Police SOCO officers at the scene where a rally car taking part in the Jim Clark Rally struck spectators, causing deaths and casualties. Picture Ian Rutherford. ©Ian Rutherford [email protected] www.ianrutherfordphotography.com 07710337520

Organiser released a statement saying: “Our thoughts are especially with those who have lost family members and to the families of the injured spectators.

“All members of the organising team are in shock and are co-operating fully with Police Scotland to establish the facts.”

A forensic team and officers from Police Scotland continue to inspect the area.

Scotland’s first minister, Alex Salmond, said: “This is desperately sad and difficult news from the Borders of the tragic circumstances that have occurred at the Jim Clark Rally.

“The police have confirmed three fatalities and my thoughts are with all of those involved and the families and loved ones of those who have lost their lives.

“The government is in contact with Police Scotland and we await the outcome of their inquiries.

“The Jim Clark Rally is a longstanding event of over 40 years.

“It is much loved in the Borders and by the rally driving community who I know will share in our sadness at what is a black day for the Borders and for Scotland.”

The rally takes its name from former top racing driver Jim Clark, who grew up in the area. Mr Clark was himself killed in a racing accident in Hockenheim, Germany, in 1968.