A FAMILY family have paid poignant tribute to a “loving and generous” couple who tragically died following a horror collision.

Christine Routledge, 66, and husband Stephen, 64, were killed after a HGV crashed into their Skoda on the A1 near Buckton, on January 14.

Grandparents killed with beloved pet dog in horror lorry crashChristine and Stephen Routledge tragically died after a horror collision on the A1Credit: SWNS Christine and Stephen Routledge�s beloved dog, Bear. / Heartfelt tributes have been paid to �loving and generous� grandparents who tragically died in a road traffic collision last week. Christine ...The couple’s beloved pet dog Bear also died in the crash

Stephen died at the scene while Christine was rushed to where she was later pronounced dead.

Their dog Bear also died from injuries sustained in the crash which took place at around 7.40am.

According to Northumbria , a lorry travelling northbound collided with the couple’s vehicle and an Audi which were driving along the southbound carriageway.

In a tribute to the couple, who were grandparents to 10 children, their family said: “Our parents were loving, generous, and deeply devoted to our family.

“They were the foundation of our lives – always offering support, guidance, and unconditional love.

“They were amazing grandparents to our 10 children who are going to miss them deeply.

“Their sudden passing in a car accident with their dog Bear who they loved very much has left a profound emptiness that words cannot fully express.

“They lived with kindness and integrity, touching the lives of many through their warmth and selflessness.

“While we are devastated by this loss, we are grateful for the memories, values, and love they gave us, which will continue to guide us every day.

“We are comforted by the fact they are all together.”

The lorry driver and the driver in the Audi were also rushed to hospital but were later discharged.

A man in his 30s was on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and has been released under investigation, the force said.

Sergeant Dave Roberts added: “Our thoughts remain with the family and loved ones of Mr and Mrs Routledge at this devastating time.

“We continue to offer them any support we can.

“If you do have details which could assist us in our enquiries, please get in touch so that we can ascertain exactly what took place and provide Mr and Mrs Routledge’s family with the answers they deserve.”

Anybody with information or footage of the moments leading up to the collision has been asked to contact Northumbria Police.

They can do this by sending them a direct message on , using the live chat and report forms on the website or calling 101.