TRIBUTES have been paid to a couple - married for more than 50 years - after they both died in a single-vehicle crash on the A14.

Dave Gooderham

TRIBUTES have been paid to a couple - married for more than 50 years - after they both died in a single-vehicle crash on the A14.

David Smith, and his wife Marjorie, both 75, of Bradwell, near Great Yarmouth, died in Monday afternoon's accident on the westbound stretch of the road, near the Rowley Mile Service Station in Newmarket.

The couple were on their way to see family in Hertfordshire when their silver Hyundai Getz left the road and collided with a sign.

The family of Mr and Mrs Smith this morning paid a moving tribute to the couple and praised the work they did in their local community.

In a statement, they said: “The 75 year old couple, married for 54 years, had been travelling to visit their daughter, son-in-law and grandson in Hertfordshire when their Hyundai vehicle left the road.

“David retired from his job as a laboratory technician at Gorleston Grammar School in 1993. He was a member of St Andrews Church in Gorleston where he was also an active volunteer with the memory club. He enjoyed cycling and walking, often joining in sporting activities with his grandsons.

“Marjorie was well known at the former Shrublands Post Office where she worked for 42 years before retiring in 1995. She devoted much of her spare time to the care of elderly relatives over the past 30 years and also enjoyed card making, cooking and puzzles.

“The family has been overwhelmed by tributes from neighbours and friends to the couple's kindness and helpfulness to all. The funeral will be held at St Andrews Church on a date to be arranged.”

Emergency services were called at 2.35pm on Monday where the Hyundai had been in collision with a sign. Mr and Mrs Smith were both pronounced dead at the scene.

A collision investigation is underway and any witnesses to the collision should call Pc Andrew Fossey at the Serious Collision Investigation Team on 01473 613500.