A OFF-DUTY police officer has died in a road traffic collision at the weekend.

PC Rhys Prentice, who was 24, passed away at the scene of the collision on the A7 just north of Galashiels.

The incident happened around 12.25pm on Sunday, July 15 when his Yamaha R6 motorcycle travelling south was involved a collision with a silver Peugeot 107 which had been travelling north.

Rhys' family have issued the following statement through Police Scotland: "We are absolutely devastated at the loss of Rhys - our much loved son, brother, fiancé and friend.

"Rhys was an enthusiastic biker and a dedicated police officer. He made us all very proud and words cannot describe how much we will miss him."

Our Divisional Commander, Chief Superintendent Lesley Clark, said: “It's a sad day for the Lothians and Scottish Borders Division, with the loss of a young and enthusiastic officer.

"Rhys was stationed in East Lothian and will be sadly missed. He was a popular and devoted officer and support is being given to his colleagues.

"Rhys' parents and fiancée were exceptionally proud of his chosen career and our thoughts remain with his family and friends at this tragic time."

Both occupants of the Peugeot sustained serious injuries and were taken to the Borders General Hospital for treatment.

The road was closed in both directions for around eight hours while emergency services attended the scene and carried out a collision investigation.

Sergeant Ross Drummond from the Road Policing Unit in Dalkeith is investigating the collision.

He added:"This incident has tragically resulted in death of a young man and a colleague.

"Our inquiries continue to establish the full circumstances surrounding the collision and anyone who was on the road at the time and witnessed what happened, is urged to contact police."

Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 2195 of July 15.