A pensioner who tragically died after being struck by two cars on a busy road has been described as a “wonderful spirit”.
The 83-year-old, who was named locally as Ernest Tough, was knocked down moments after stepping off a bus on the A96 Aberdeen to Inverness road, near Colpy.
The church elder, who lived in nearby Insch, died at the scene on Wednesday night.
Last night local councillor and Aberdeenshire’s deputy provost Allison Grant said the community was “in mourning” over his untimely death.
Mrs Grant, who successfully nominated Mr Tough for Aberdeenshire Council’s volunteer of the year award last year, said: “The whole of Insch and its surrounding settlements will be in mourning over the loss of Ernest.
“He was a humble, quiet man who touched everyone’s heart – he really was a wonderful spirit.”
A retired postman and former electrician, Mr Tough was an active member of the Insch Community Association.
Village resident Diane McCallum described the pensioner as a “special person”.
She said: “He was an amazing character. He was always upbeat, a lovely person to know.
“There’s not a bad thing you could say about him.”
It is believed Mr Tough had driven to Colpy to catch the bus, and parked his car near the spot where he was struck.
Ms McCallum other village residents regularly did the same, due to the lack of buses going through Insch.
She said: “It’s just a shame we’ve had to lose a really special person.
“He always wanted to be part of things. He would appear at any fundraising event to support it. His happy face will be missed.”
Police yesterday renewed their appeal for witnesses to the collision, which involved a white Vauxhall Astra and red Renault Megane, to come forward.
Sergeant Malcolm Kinross, of the roads policing unit, said: “At this sad time our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of the male involved.
“This was a distressing incident and those who witnessed it have been deeply affected.”
Anyone who has information which could help police should contact 101.