A loving family man has died tragically after being crushed by his own car at a Highland farm.
Tributes were paid last night to “amazing” and “brilliant guy” Tommy Macauley, a popular local postman and firefighter from Helmsdale in Sutherland.
The 54-year-old is understood to have died from his injuries after becoming trapped by the vehicle as it rolled backwards, while tending to a gate at the entrance to Navidale Farm, just north of the village.
Yesterday, his 22-year-old daughter, Lauren Macauley, said her father was the “best person” she knew, adding: “I am so proud of him and so grateful that I got to be his daughter.
“He was the most amazing person I have ever met and he would do anything for anyone. He was a massive family man. He will be sorely missed.”
Widow Jane Macauley, who was married to Tommy for 23 years, was too upset to speak at length about her late husband, but said: “A tragic accident has happened and we are all in shock. He was a brilliant guy.”
Dozens of tributes were paid over the weekend on social media to the “whirlwind of a man”, while almost £3,000 had been raised by last night for the family in an online appeal.
It is believed that the incident happened after the father-of-two had been helping a local farmer on Friday with some work, shortly before leaving for his lunch.
Police are examining CCTV images taken from a camera beside the gate where the accident happened – but confirmed the incident was not being treated as suspicious.
Mr Macauley, also a father to 27-year-old Shaun Macrae, was well known in Helmsdale and worked as the local postman for more than two decades.
His daughter affectionately recalled how her father was known to be the “quickest postie around” and used to run “from house to house” delivering mail.
The 55-year-old, who lived at Lichfield Court, by the harbour, also served his community as a volunteer firefighter for more than 20 years.
His daughter spoke of how her father was heavily involved in the community and that since he was a teenager played for Helmsdale United, as well as Bunillidh Thistle FC, and was known for his firm, fierce tackles.
Mr Macauley, known affectionately by teammates as “Tomat”, was also one of the founders of the Bunillidh Rowing Club and played a major part in the building and maintenance of the two rowing boats that they currently use.
Yesterday his family spoke of how he was known to be a “jack of all trades” and could “fix anything”.
Born at Raigmore Hospital in Inverness, he grew up at “the pens” on Golf Road along with his many siblings.
He was twin to Ann and the second oldest brother to James and Jean, also twins.
He also leaves behind two younger brothers, John and Alexander.
A keen sports fans, Mr Macauley also frequently enjoyed a game of golf with his friends and played to a handicap of eight, and was also known for being a strong pool and darts player.
The tragic accident at Navidale Farm was reported to police at about 4pm on Friday.
It is understood Mr Macauley’s body was discovered by farmer Phil Davidson.
Yesterday, flowers had been left beside a tree close to the scene of the accident – and a Scotland flag and football top were pinned to the tree.
Mike Thompson, Royal Mail’s delivery office manager for Helsmdale, said: “It is with great shock and sadness that staff at Helmsdale Delivery Office learned of the sudden death of one of our postmen.
“Tommy Macaulay had been a postman for nearly 22 years and was a much valued member of staff.
“He will be sorely missed by his colleagues, friends and customers here. Our deepest sympathy and thoughts are with his family and friends at this very sad time.”
In an online statement, the North Caledonian Football Association (NCFA) said: “It was with great shock and sadness that late last night the NCFA learnt of the tragic death of one of its former players Tommy Macaulay, from Helmsdale.
“Tommy mainly played for Bunillidh Thistle, but over the many years played for numerous North Caley teams.
“As a player the term ‘combative midfielder’ who gave 100%, would best describe him, off the field he was great company, a loyal member of the Tartan Army and a friend to many.
“The NCFA have requested that all North Caley matches played today have a mark of respect before the game in honour of Tommy Macaulay.
“Thoughts and condolences to the Macaulay family. RIP Tommy aka Tomat.”
