A RETIRED teacher from Earlston was killed in a crash outside Selkirk.

Jennifer Thomson, who also taught at Peebles, was behind the wheel of a Seat Ibiza when it collided head-on with another car on the A7 just before 5pm.

The 69-year-old sustained serious injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Dozens of tributes from her family, friends and former pupils were posted in the days following the crash.

A family statement read: “Jennifer, although having been retired from teaching for several years, still played an active role in community affairs. “She continued with supply work, the Red Cross and provided make-up for several border operatic societies. “She will be sadly missed by family and friends.” Jennifer was the popular make-up lady at both the Galashiels and Selkirk operatic societies. And both companies paid tribute to her.

A spokeswoman for Gala Opera stated: “Jennifer headed our make up team over many years and was an important part of our team.

“She will be sorely missed for her professional skills but mostly as a kind and generous friend, who always had a kind word and was always willing to help in any capacity she could. Such a sad loss to us all.” Yvonne Mitchell from Selkirk Opera added: “Jen had been our head of make-up for as long as I can remember. She was always so friendly and helpful to old and new members of the company, she was a real confidence-giver.

“Always kind and caring, she never had a bad word to say about anyone. Jen will be very sorely missed.” Jennifer, who was a Red Cross volunteer for many years, had been a popular home economics teacher at Peebles High School before her retirement.

Many of her former pupils also contacted us to pay tribute.

Karen Redpath said: “This is so sad, she was my teacher at Peebles High School and we saw her at a lot of my son’s races when she was with the Red Cross.” Another former pupil Nikki Donnelly said: “Very sad news, my first boss. A fantastic teacher and inspirational lady.” And Donna Moretta told us: “Jennifer was a PHS legend, a fantastic lady. We were shocked and saddened to hear this news.” Former neighbour Tracey Greer added: “A lovely lady who was my mum and dad’s neighbour for as long as I can remember - will be missed in Earlston.” The 51-year-old driver of the Nissan car, which was also involved in the collision, was taken to Borders General Hospital for treatment.

Police closed the A7 at Selkirk Golf Club for over five hours to conduct a full crash scene investigation and also remove the vehicles.

Officers continue to appeal for any witnesses to come forward.

Inspector Andrew Amour said: “I would appeal to anyone who may have been in the area at the material time and may have witnessed what happened to come forward.

“Similarly, if anyone has information relevant to this investigation then they are also asked to contact police immediately.” Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101.