A farmer killed in a freak combining accident was last night described as a “family man” who doted on his grandchildren.
Ian Chalmers was seriously injured while working in a field at New Deer.
Emergency services – including fire crews and an air ambulance – were called to the incident on land behind the Costcutter store in the village’s main Street.
Paramedics battled for an hour to save Mr Chalmers but the 71-year-old died at the scene.
The green Claas Tucano 430 harvester remained in the field yesterday as police and the Health and Safety Executive carried out an investigation.
Last night, Mr Chalmers’s family paid tribute to the “well known” member of the farming community who loved nothing more than spending time with his grandchildren.
Speaking at the family farm at Craigiefold, Rosehearty, his eldest son Gordon said: “He was a much-loved, family man. He worked and was well known in farming circles.
“He enjoyed his work and lived for his family – in particular his grandchildren.”
Mr Chalmers is survived by seven grandchildren, four sons and one daughter.
Community leaders expressed their sympathy to the family last night.
Troup councillor Mark Findlater said the Chalmers would be in his thoughts and prayers.
“It’s a terrible accident, but as we know, farmers and fishermen do very dangerous jobs,” he added.
“His family will be in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. My heart goes out them. My own dad is a farmer and I know the number of close shaves he’s had.”
fellow Troup member Ross Cassie said: “The thoughts of the council will be with Mr Chalmers’s family, friends and everyone who knew him.
“It’s an unfortunate accident and my thoughts go out to the whole of Rosehearty, which will be feeling a sad loss at the moment.
“At this time of the year, with agricultural vehicles being used, there is the potential for these accidents to happen.”
A spokeswoman for the HSE: “HSE is aware of the incident and is jointly investigating with the police.”
On the night of the accident, residents near the field – located just behind a local grocery – said they were unsure what had happened.
A spokesman for the fire service confirmed its first responder unit had attended, but that a full crew had not been required.
Police said a report on the incident would be submitted to the procurator fiscal.