By Alan Wilson

THE SON-IN-LAW of Dundee United FC chairman Eddie Thompson has lost his life in a motorcycle accident.

Ken Mitchell (38) died after losing control of his Harley Davidson bike on a bend on the A90, near the M9 underpass close to Dalmeny at 8am on Sunday.

It is believed his wife Justine was in front of him in their car and saw the accident.

The tragedy comes as Eddie Thompson continues his battle with cancer in hospital.

Mr and Mrs Mitchell, who have a year-old son Monty, were married in April 2004 at Dundas Castle, South Queensferry.

Mr Mitchell owned an executive recruitment agency and his wife is a lawyer in Edinburgh. She is helping to run United during her father’s illness.

The police are appealing for witnesses following the crash.

Dundee United director Derek Robertson, a close friend of the family, said of those at the club, “We are all extremely upset at this tragic news.

“Ken was a well-known and popular figure at Tannadice, particularly on match days and was clearly devoted to his family.”

Last night Dundee United issued a statement on behalf of the Mitchell and Thompson families.

“Justine, Monty and Jessica are devastated by the sudden loss of Ken—a much loved husband and father,” it said.

“He was their whole life and had so much to live for and give.

“The family have requested that they are left to grieve in private at this extremely difficult time.”