Prominent Scottish sheep farmer Jim Sharp has been killed while operating a grain auger on his farm in the Borders.
Police were alerted to the incident near Lauder shortly before 1.45pm on Monday. The Health and Safety Executive is investigating.
Mr Sharp, 66, is a former livestock board convener with the National Farmers Union Scotland. Police haven’t released details of what happened.
Tributes have been led by union president Nigel Miller who farms near Stow.
In a statement, he said: ““Jim has left his mark on Borders farming through his skill energy and attention to detail. His stockmanship amongst his hill sheep and husbandry on low ground demonstrate Scottish farming at his best.
“As a man he had a sharp intellect and a level of experience which was of real value in serious conversation but also a generosity and love of life which made him great company.
“Often soft spoken he contributed to debate in a positive way – his thoughts were of real value at both local and national level where he gave his time to the union and the community.
“Jim was an ambassador for all that as good in farming. He gave a lot to our industry the Borders community and the union.
“Most importantly he was a great friend that so many of us will miss. Our sympathy must be with his family.”