SCOTTISH AGRICULTURE has lost one of its popular characters on the sudden death of Malcolm Donaldson (Malky).

Malcolm had a successful career with United Auctions which spanned more than 40 years. From a family with a long connection with Perth Auction Market, it was almost inevitable that he would join the company. His early duties related to droving and the lairaging of stock, before moving on to being the firm's forklift driver. Notably, he was a key member of the market turnaround team, moving tens of thousands of tonnes of straw, bedding and fodder in his time.

A loyal staff member who always went the extra mile to look after both customers and stock, Malky often spoke in rhyming slang and enjoyed a good laugh with customers and colleagues.

In his younger day he was involved in the setting up of Perth Show and later established a flock of 100 commercial breeding ewes of which he was immensely proud. A kind man too, he acted as a caretaker of a local country residence.

Malcolm died three days after the first week of the Stirling February Bull sales having fulfilled his usual duties in his beloved Kramer forklift.

He is survived by his partner Christine, his sister Mary and brothers Duncan and David and will be greatly missed.