AN elderly couple - who had been married for more than 60 years - have died following a road traffic collision in Barnsley earlier this month.
On Thursday, October 13, emergency services were called to reports of an incident on Wakefield Road in Athersley, involving a black Ford C-Max.
When officers from South Yorkshire Police arrived on the scene, 87-year-old Mike Marsden was found in cardiac arrest.
Despite the efforts of the emergency services on hand, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
His wife of more than 60 years, 87-year-old Anne, suffered serious injuries and was taken to hospital by ambulance where she was treated.
She died on Saturday and their family, who are being supported by specially-trained officers, paid tribute to the couple.
“Mike and Anne were family-orientated and were immensely proud of all their family, but their friends were also a huge part of their lives, many of whom they’d spent a lifetime with,” they said.
“They had been married for 63 years and had two children, four grandchildren and a great granddaughter, who they adored.
“Mike was a retired surveyor for Leeds City Council and he was an accomplished pianist and a keen golfer.
“He remained a member of Silkstone Golf Club despite not being able to play over the last few years.
“Anne was a retired teacher who worked at Littleworth infants’ school in Lundwood for over 30 years.
“She was a gentle person and was described as lovely by friends, family, and pupils.
“Anne was a keen artist and continued to attend art classes up to the day before the accident.
“She always took pride in her clothes and appearance and still went regularly for her nails and hair done.”
The couple were travelling to Anne’s usual 10am Thursday hair appointment when the incident occurred.
The family have also thanked those who were on scene, and say it gives them ‘comfort’ they are still together.
“As a family we are devastated to have lost them both in such a tragic way but are glad they are together and we don’t think Anne would have coped without Mike, so it brings us comfort during this difficult time,” they added
“We would like to thank members of the public who helped following the accident, the emergency services and the Northern General Hospital who were all amazing.
“We would also like to thank those who have sent messages of condolence, we appreciate it.”
An appeal has been launched by South Yorkshire Police into the fatal collision, and they’re appealing for residents’ help in the matter.
A spokesperson from the force added: “Officers are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed the collision or has dashcam footage.
“If you can help, please send footage quoting incident number 247 of October 10 as your subject line to enquiries@southyorks.pnn.police.uk, or call 101.”
