Death of Inverness Teacher

The Inverness school teacher, who became unconscious at the wheel of a minibus when driving a school rugby team back from a match in Plockton in February, has sadly died in Highland Hospice.

Dave Aitchison, 58, was a biology teacher, and former PE teacher at Millburn Academy Inverness. He was highly respected by his colleagues, pupils and the rugby team he coached. A keen sportsman Dave was a low handicap golfer though his real passion was for rugby where he not only played for the local team at Highland RFC for many years but played at District and international level having numerous Scotland ‘B’ caps. Indeed Dave was selected for a full Scotland cap but unfortunately never took to the field due to injury, he went on to sit on the replacements bench on at least nine occasions but never fulfilled his ambition to achieve a full cap

He was proud of his school rugby team, and particularly the composure and bravery of the two pupils, who stopped the minibus which was out of control when Mr Aitchison collapsed.

Dave’s sister, Linda Mason, said: “Dave had a great passion for life and will be sadly missed by a wide range of people in the many interests he enjoyed. The overwhelming support he received during his illness from colleague’s, pupils and ex pupils, friends and past rugby team mates was indicative of the impact and  difference he had made to many people both as a teacher and a friend.”

Dave was single, and is survived by his father Bill, his sister Linda, brother Kenny and families.

His funeral service will be held on Friday (12th July) with a service at Crown Church and at Inverness Crematorium.

The family has requested that there should be only family flowers and that any donations be made to Highland Hospice at Ness House, Inverness.