Pensioner dies in North-East house fire

Alexander Smith died after a fire broke out in Macduff in the early hours of Sunday 9 December.

Fire crews were called around 5am to The Leys in Macduff to a house fire.

The 76 year old died at the scene despite emergency services efforts to save him.

Neighbouring addresses were evacuated as a precaution, however no-one else was injured and no other properties were damaged.

Mr Smith’s family has released the following statement through Police Scotland: “Sandy was a hardworking, kind man who was much loved by his family. We are shocked and saddened by his death. We would ask that we are allowed privacy to grieve at this difficult time.”

Detective Inspector Sam Buchan said: “Our thoughts remain with Alexander’s family at this sad time. I can confirm there are no suspicious circumstances. As is standard with sudden deaths a report has been submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.”