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An elderly man in his 80s has tragically died following a collision on the A1 near the Metrocentre earlier today (Monday).

Emergency services were called to the scene at around 10:15 AM after reports of a serious collision involving a pedestrian and a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) on the southbound carriageway. The Great North Air Ambulance was also in attendance, but despite their efforts, the man was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

Initial investigations suggest the man may have been linked to a white Ford Edge vehicle that was parked nearby.

Both sides of the A1 were closed for several hours to allow emergency services to attend and for investigations to take place. The road closures caused significant delays, with motorists advised to seek alternative routes. The northbound carriageway reopened earlier, and the southbound carriageway was reopened at approximately 2:30 PM.

The driver of the HGV remained at the scene and is assisting police with their inquiries.

Appeal for Witnesses

Northumbria Police have launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision. Sergeant Dave Roberts of the Roads Policing Unit said:

“Firstly, our thoughts are with the man’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.

A range of enquiries are underway as we work to understand what led to this tragic incident.

We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who witnessed the collision or saw the vehicles involved – a Scania HGV and a white Ford Edge – in the area at the time.

If you have any dashcam footage or information that could assist with our investigation, please come forward.”

How to Help

Anyone with information is asked to contact Northumbria Police via their website, social media channels, or by calling 101. Please quote reference number NP-20241125-0254.

This is a developing story, and our thoughts are with the man’s family and everyone affected by this tragedy.

Khant Chan M.
5 days ago
I had a great experience with Shift Driving School, especially with my two instructors, Phil and Alex. Both were incredibly patient, friendly and knowledgeable. They always gave me honest feedback on the spot, explaining what I was doing well, what needed improvement and why. They taught me a lot about proper road positioning, what to look out for and what to do and avoid in different driving situations.

I originally booked 10 hours of lessons but managed to pass my driving test first time after just 8 hours! Their guidance, encouragement and patience really helped me become a more confident and safer driver.

A massive thank you to Phil and Alex! I would highly recommend them to anyone learning to drive!
Jamb0_20o7 _.
7 days ago
Mady S.
1 month ago
I highly recommend them. I had a driving lesson and a mock test, and both were professional and really helpful. The clear feedback improved my confidence, and I passed my test today! Thank you so much for all your help and support⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Caitlin Y.
1 month ago
I would highly recommend my driving instructor Simon Houghton! He taught me in ways that were completely different to my previous instructors, which really helped me build my confidence and improve my driving. He has a great sense of humour, which made every lesson enjoyable and relaxed. Most importantly, his teaching and support helped me pass my driving test! Couldn’t thank him enough. 🚗🎉
Vicki M.
1 month ago
From back in march when I phoned shift to start to learn to drive they were amazing was assigned a tutor quickly and have to say Lewis is amazing at his job put me at ease from the get go ! Was always calm and knowledgeable and adapted well to me being an older learner being late 40s and 6 months later I passed my test can’t thank Lewis enough for helping me get there quicker then I ever thought I would be can’t recommend them enough
Thanks shift team your the best out there
Jack
2 months ago
I booked my test in an area I was mostly unfamiliar with, so I booked three 2-hour lessons with Lewis to get used to the roads beforehand. It was definitely the right call. Lewis was really calm, patient and knowledgeable, and he took me around a lot of the places the test route might cover, so nothing on the day came as a surprise.

He also helped me iron out a few kinks in my driving, and his tips were clear and easy to put into practice. The car was great too, very smooth to drive, and it definitely helped me on the day.

I passed, and I definitely reckon I wouldn't have without him. I'd happily recommend Lewis to anyone, especially if you're taking your test somewhere you're not familiar with. Cheers Lewis!
Jonnie T.
2 months ago
Just passed yesterday with 0 driving faults. Thankyou so much to my instructor Paul.
Ellie L.
2 months ago
Great driving instructor, I would recommend to anyone!
Annie S.
2 months ago
10-10 driving school got me through 23 hours of lessons
Zachary H.
2 months ago
I passed my test yesterday and Simon my instructor was a huge part of that. He was extremely helpful and supportive, very approachable and always had time for my questions and queries. I’d absolutely recommend Shift and Simon to anyone who wants to pass their test and enjoy the process along the way!