The family of an elderly woman who died when a fire ripped through her Fife home at the weekend have paid tribute to the woman they knew simply as ‘Mum’.
Catherine Walkingshaw, who was 83, became trapped as the blaze spread through the Cellardyke cottage she shared with her husband Archie.
Mr Walkingshaw was treated for smoke inhalation by ambulance staff at the scene. He is now believed to be staying with family.
In a statement issued through Police Scotland, the family said: “Mum always had a smile on her face and had a long and happy life, in which she raised her own family and saw her own family raise theirs.
“Catherine had 61 blissful years with her husband Archie.”
Detective Sergeant Samantha Davidson, who led the investigation into the circumstances of the fire, said: “Our thoughts are with Catherine Walkingshaw’s husband Archie and the whole family at this difficult time.
“This has been a tragic event and while we continue to work with our fire service colleagues to determine the specific cause of the fire, I can confirm we are not investigating any suspicious circumstances.
“As with all incidents of this nature a report relating to Mrs Walkingshaw’s death has been submitted to the procurator fiscal.”
More than 35 firefighters were involved in tackling the flames after the alarm was raised at around 6.30am on Saturday.
Neighbours told how they had found a frantic Mr Walkingshaw shouting for help.