Man charged over great-grandfather's death in Elgin

A man has been charged after an 83-year-old man died and two other pensioners were seriously injured in an incident at woods in Moray.

Police were called to reports three people had been attacked while walking at Birkenhill Woods near New Elgin at around 9am on Monday.

They were all taken to Dr Gray's Hospital in Elgin where Frank Kinnis, 83, later died.

The family of Mr Kinnis paid tribute to him in a statement issued through police.

It read: "We are mourning the loss of our beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

"He was a doting, warm-hearted and unfailingly dependable presence in each of our lives.

"There will also be fond memories of him among the farming and bowls communities in Elgin, where he was well known and liked.

"We will fondly remember him as he was in life, and ask everyone who knew him to make certain that it is these memories of him that endure.

"While the police continue the investigation, we kindly ask that our privacy be respected.''

Police said they will be increasing patrols in the area and appealed for information about the incident.

Superintendent Kate Stephen said: "A 35-year-old man has been arrested in connection with these incidents and has now been charged, therefore we are unable to speculate or answer questions regarding the circumstances.

"Given how incredibly rare and unusual this incident is for such a well-used and loved area, officers will be carrying out additional patrols here and providing an increased presence over the coming days - please approach any our officers if you have information, or even if you just want to speak to someone about your concerns.

"I am acutely aware of the impact this incident has had on the local community and I include in that my own officers who not only work in the area but many of whom also live in the communities.

"Moray prides itself on being one of the safest places to live, which makes this incident all the more tragic."

It's as a Church of Scotland minister and his wife remain in Dr Gray's Hospital after also being caught up in Monday's incident in Moray.

Rev Morris Smith, of Aberlour Parish Church, and his wife Janette, both aged 70, suffered serious head injuries, both in a stable condition.

A spokeswoman for the Kirk said: 'We can confirm that one of our Church of Scotland ministers and his wife were injured in an incident that occurred at Birkenhill Woods, south of Elgin'

'Both are now in hospital receiving medical treatment. Our thoughts and prayers are with them and also with the family of the man who very tragically died'

'This has been a very distressing event for all those involved and we would ask that the family's privacy is respected whilst they recover'

35-year-old David Andrew Johnstone had been charged in connection with the death of the great-grandfather. He appeared in court on Wednesday charged with the 83-year-old's murder.

He is also accused of the attempted murder of the 70-year-old couple. Johnstone made no plea at Elgin Sheriff Court and was remanded in custody.