A hospice volunteer killed in the Stonehaven train derailment tragedy has been hailed as 'incredibly caring, fun-loving, genuine and kind' in a heartfelt tribute by NHS bosses.
Aberdeen dad Christopher Stuchbury was one of three killed in the devastating train crash outside the Aberdeenshire town on Wednesday morning.
The 62-year-old passenger died alongside train driver Brett McCullough and conductor Donald Dinnie.
Christopher volunteered at the Roxburghe House, specialist palliative care unit in Aberdeen, for nine years and heartfelt tributes have been paid to him there.
Mandy Urquhart, voluntary services manager at NHS Grampian's Roxburghe House, said: "Chris really was a man much loved by all who knew him. He was incredibly caring, fun-loving, genuine and kind.
"His compassion and understanding brought him through the doors of Roxburghe House nine years ago, to help others at their time of need.
"Since then he has become a familiar, and regular, face on the ward with his tea trolley and in our coffee bar. He brought comfort and a welcome distraction to patients, their families, our staff and volunteers in so many ways.
"We were absolutely privileged to work alongside him and will remember him with a smile and of the stories and the laughter we shared on so many Fridays.
"Our deepest sympathy and sincere condolences are with his family, friends and colleagues at this incredibly difficult time."
Investigations continue into the cause of the derailment.
Christopher's heartbroken family have also issued a statement in tribute.
“Chris was a much adored husband, son, dad, stepdad, grandad, brother and uncle and was a treasured and loved friend to many, including the Targe Towing Team where he was an integral and valued member of staff.
“He also volunteered at Roxburghe House in Aberdeen during his spare time which he thoroughly enjoyed doing.
“We are devastated by his death and we request privacy at this difficult time as we come to terms with our loss.”
British Transport Police are working closely with the Rail Accident Investigation Branch and the Office of Rail and Road to establish the full circumstances.
It is understood that the ScotRail service had been travelling south when it came across a landslip and was forced to turn back.
But the train it thought to have then came across a second landslide which caused it to come off the tracks.
The surrounding areas had been pummelled with heavy rainfall in the hours before the accident, which also left a further six people injured.
The train users were taken to hospital for treatment but their injuries are thankfully not thought to be serious.
