Funds are being raised to renovate a favourite tractor of young Orkney farmer Evan Tait, who tragically died on June 21.

The fundraiser set up by Evan’s aunt Lyn McBride smashed its £2500 target in less than an hour and hit £5500 within two days. All additional funds will be donated to RSABI.

Evan, who took his own life, left a letter with a request that his beloved John Deere 3650 be fully restored, and then on completion be shown off whenever possible, at ploughing matches, vintage rallies, shows and tractor runs. The letter said: "I want it kept as part of me, and my proudest thing I have ever owned."

The tractor was moved from the island of Hoy, where Evan worked, earlier in the week to begin restorations on the Orkney mainland. It was met by his family all at the pier at Houton where Evan’s mother Karen Johnston said: “I can't tell you how much my heart shattered to hear that distinctive engine fire up.

“We want to make you so proud Evan and your Aunty Lynn suggested we raise the funds to realise your dream. To see that very special tractor restored and taken to ploughing matches, rallies, shows and runs as you requested will be done in honour of you, our beautiful young man.”

All donations to the Evan's Tractor Just Giving Page can be made here – Crowdfunding to Evan’s Tractor Fund on JustGiving