Farmer 'critical' after attack by prowlers

A HUNT has been launched for two prowlers who savagely attacked a retired farmer in the grounds of his home.

Sandy Ingram, 79, was said to be "critically ill" in Aberdeen Royal Infirmary after suffering serious head injuries in the assault by the intruders at Elrick House on the outskirts of Newmachar, Aberdeenshire.

Mr Ingram, a prominent figure in the agriculture industry in north-east Scotland, was attacked on Saturday night when he left his home to investigate the sighting of the two men in the grounds of his secluded home.

His wife, Ann, is understood to have found her husband lying unconscious in the garden after he failed to return.

Det Insp Richie Guild, who is heading the Grampian Police investigation, said:

"This is an isolated and quiet area. Our officers are carrying out door-to-door inquiries at nearby homes to establish if anyone saw anything which could assist the inquiry.

"And we'd appeal for anyone with any information which could assist us, no matter how trivial it may seem to them, to contact us."

DI Guild added: "Given the location, it is likely a vehicle was used to get to the house."

Local councillor Fergie Hood, a friend of Mr Ingram, said: "I am very shocked.

Sandy is well-known and well-liked in his community."