PROUD grandparents today spoke of their grief at the tragic death of their granddaughter in a car crash.

Former Inverclyde Provost John Walsh and his wife, Mary, are still getting over the shock of losing 20-year-old Blair in a car crash in America just three weeks ago.The 'vivacious' red-head visited relatives in Gourock every year from her home in Florida and was in the town recently.

John, 80, told the Tele: "Blair was just a quarter of my age - she had so much to offer. She built up so many friendships here. It is incredible the people who have spoken to us since it happened. She was a right live wire."

But on 18 November, Blair's car crashed through a barbed wire fence and slammed into a tree. She was unable to call for help and the accident went unnoticed for eight hours as Blair clung to life in the wrecked Volkswagen.

Yet her family is able to draw comfort from the fact Blair's organs have saved SEVEN lives. Her corneas, liver, kidney and even skin from her back all helped others.

And a seven-year-old girl got her heart on the American Thanksgiving holiday.

Blair's dad, Raymond, died just a year and a half ago.

Mary, 75, said: "It's such a waste. Blair was gorgeous. I keep thinking she's going to bounce in here. I will most remember her vivaciousness. Her mum Sharon said Blair was more Scottish - solid and down to earth."


LIVEWIRE: 'Vivacious' Blair Walsh.
Blair Alexandra Walsh was born in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and moved to Port Charlotte, Florida, in 1994. After school she went to Manatee Community College for a semester before transferring to Edison College.

While holding down two jobs, Blair was still named on the National Dean's List for her top marks as she pursued a degree in international relations.

She accumulated so many credits the college has just announced they will award her a degree posthumously. A plaque is also being put up in her honour at the college after touching so many lives.