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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.

Sophie B.
2 days ago
Cannot recommend this driving school and Simon enough. Simon is extremely patient and kind, very adaptive in his teaching style to help suit the student. I never thought I would be able to drive as a nervous driver, let alone pass my test but he has helped me feel confident and capable. He goes above and beyond the job and really cares about his students. The app is also really helpful and detailed to keep you organised and get you test ready. I am genuinely going to miss my lessons as I passed today! Thank you so much Simon and the shift team!
Garry D.
9 months ago
recommends
Highly recommend Shift Driving School. They were an absolute pleasure to deal with from start to finish. Special shout out to my instructor Hassan, who taught me from scratch in just under 6 months. I had no previous driving experience at all and he talked through the steps and skills needed clearly, always supportively pushing me to be my best. Delighted to have passed at first attempt! Couldn’t have done it without the team at Swift and Hassan. Thank you!
Arizah A.
3 days ago
I recently passed my driving test and my instructor Simon, was thorough, and tailored the lessons to improve where I lack.
The mock test is a must as it gave me an indicator if I should proceed or postpone my test.
Overall, reliable, thorough and reasonable driving school.
Denise W.
2 years ago
recommends
I 10000000% recommend this driving school my instructor has been appsalutly amazing he had so much patience and really helped me through all my lessons then he recommend me a nervous course which really helped me as I really struggled with my nerve on my test but I finally done it and passed my test and I wouldn't have been able to do it if it wasn't for lewis so thank u sooooo much :)
Leo J.
1 week ago
Passed my test because of Lewis. Amazing.
Webdeco.
2 years ago
recommends
What a great company to not only learn to drive with, but to actually work with too. We would highly recommend Shift without a doubt.
Tim P.
2 weeks ago
I had driving lessons with Lisa and passed my driving exam with only one minor. She is very patient and knowledgeable about driving safety and the surrounding area. I would highly recommend Lisa to anyone considering taking driving lessons. Thank you Lisa for all of your help!
Christopher W.
2 weeks ago
I used to find driving lessons stressful and boring, and my previous instructors (at other schools) were totally unreliable - messaging at short notice to cancel lessons. This made me hate driving all together...

Simon at SHIFT is the total opposite. He’s calm, consistent, and easy to get along with, which made a massive difference in my driving. I never thought I’d say this, but I actually enjoyed the process this time around.

Not once has Simon let me down - even working his days off to ensure I got across the line!

Passing first time with only 1 driver fault was the icing on the cake - even the examiner on test day mentioned the number of high quality students that Simon produces!

Cheers, Simon!
inferno1393
1 month ago
Majid was a patient and skilled instructor who helped me pass my test and develop my independent driving skills
Jerusha R.
1 month ago
I had a fantastic experience learning to drive with my instructor, Simon Houghton. He helped me overcome my fear of the road with his calm, patient approach and never made me feel rushed. He tracked my progress carefully, helped me understand complex situations, and corrected my mistakes in a way that actually built my confidence. Thanks to him, my driving skills improved massively. A great experience with Shift Driving School. Highly recommended.