An Aberdeenshire family has been left heartbroken after a “much-loved” grandfather died when he was struck by a bus.
Dougie McDonald, 69, was killed when he was hit by a bus taking young musicians home from a concert in Aberdeen at about 9.45am on Sunday.
Despite the best efforts of paramedics, the pensioner died at the scene on the A92 Aberdeen to Stonehaven southbound road.
Last night, Mr McDonald’s family thanked the emergency services for all their efforts to save his life.
In a statement, they said: “Sadly our much-loved husband, dad and grandad Dougie McDonald was taken from us in heartbreaking and tragic circumstances.
“There are no words to describe our loss and we would like to thank all of our family and friends for their love and support during this difficult time.
“We would like to thank the emergency services for their compassion and support.”
The coach involved in the collision was from Shiel Buses, a Fort William-based company.
The vehicle had been carrying the Oban High School Pipe Band, who had been performing in Aberdeen the night before.
The youngsters had been playing at the MG Alba Scots Trad Music Awards at Aberdeen Music Hall, alongside popular ceilidh rock group Skerryvore.
A spokesman for Argyll and Bute Council said: “Oban High School Pipe Band pupils were on a bus involved in a crash when travelling back from a performance in Aberdeen.
“All pupils are safe and parents have been informed.”
Yesterday police continued their appeal for anyone who saw the collision, or the events preceding it, to get in touch and assist their investigation.
In particular, officers are looking to speak to drivers of an orange Ford Focus and a purple car that passed by the scene at the time.
Drivers who use dashboard-mounted cameras have also been urged to come forward with any video they may have recorded which could help shed light on what happened.
Roads policing sergeant, Scott Deans, said: “Our thoughts remain with the family of the man who has tragically died.
“Our inquiries into the incident are ongoing, and I would continue to urge anyone who witnessed what happened, but has not yet spoken to the police, to please get in touch by calling 101.”
