Aberdeenshire murder victim's family pay tribute

Relatives of a man found murdered at his remote Aberdeenshire home have spoken of their shock as they paid tribute to him.

Brian was discovered on March 12

Brian McKandie’s body was discovered at Fairview Cottages, Badenscoth, Rothienorman, on Saturday March 12.

The 67-year-old is believed to have suffered a violent attack.

In a statement issued via police, his family remembered the “genial” man.

They said: “Brian was a dearly beloved brother of William, Margaret and the late Elizabeth, brother-in-law, uncle and friend to many.

“He was a genial sort of chap with a dry sense of humour. He was hard-working and very dedicated to his business.

“We have been shocked by the recent events and would ask that our privacy is respected at this difficult time.”

Detectives investigating the murder recently appealed for information about two men who may have visited Mr McKandie the day before he was found dead.

Officers said inquiries suggest he could have been visited by two men the previous day between about 5pm and 6pm.

“We are appealing for these two men who were seen speaking to Mr McKandie to come forward and speak to us to see if they have information that could assist with our investigation,” Detective Chief Inspector Iain Smith said on Monday.

“We don’t have a detailed description of the two men but one is thought to be in his 20s and the other in his 30s or 40s.

“Additionally, anyone else who was in the area at the time or has information, no matter how insignificant you think the information could be, is encouraged to come forward.”