North Uist helicopter crash victim named

A MAN who died in a helicopter crash in the Western Isles has been named by police.

Father-of-two Peter Clunas, 59 and from Newburgh in Aberdeenshire, was the sole occupant of the aircraft as it came down into the water at Loch Scadavay, North Uist yesterday.

In a statement, his family thanked emergency services for their efforts, adding: “Peter was a larger than life character who loved flying. He was a keen cyclist and swimmer. He will be missed by all who knew him.”

Western Isles area commander Chief Inspector Ian Graham said: “Our thoughts remain with Mr Clunas’s family and friends at this difficult time, as well as the local community on North Uist.

“I would also take the opportunity to express our thanks to the members of the public who assisted at the scene during this tragic incident.

“Our enquiries to establish the full circumstances are ongoing and officers have been liaising with partner agencies, including the Air Accident Investigation Branch which has attended at the scene today.”