Farmer, 71, who appeared on BBC show 'killed by one of his own cows'

An investigation has been launched after a farmer who appeared on a BBC show was reported killed by one of his own cows.

Derek Roan, 71, died in hospital after an incident involving livestock at his family farm near Dalbeattie, Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland, in June last year.

Emergency crews were called to the scene at Barnbarroch Farm on 19 June and took the injured grandfather-of-six to Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary, but nothing could be done to save him.

A Fatal Accident Inquiry (FAI) is now to be held to examine the circumstances around Mr Roan’s death.

His loved ones confirmed his death and spoke of their shock in a statement issued via the family firm Roan’s Dairy, saying he was a “beloved husband” to wife Kathleen and “devoted father” to their three children.

They said: “We are totally devastated and still in shock at what has happened and it will take some time for us to come to terms of not having him around.

“All Derek’s hard work was for his two passions in life - his family and his farms.

“Derek was well known within the farming community and many other circles. He will be sadly missed by all.”

Mr Roan, who appeared on documentary series This Farming Life, was well known in his local community and was chairman of Colvend and Southwick Community Council.

Vice-chairman Simon Pain said at the time his friend had died from a “stock-related injury” and said the farmer was “well liked and well respected in our community”, describing him as a “leading light”.

NFU (National Farmers’ Union) Scotland president Martin Kennedy said the union had lost a “real stalwart”.

Regional chairman Colin Ferguson said his loss had “sent shock waves through the region and beyond”.

The Roan family has been milking pedigree Holstein cows at Barnbarroch for six generations.

They run two dairy farms in the Stewartry at Barnbarroch and Boreland of Colvend and also operate a milk delivery service across Dumfries and Galloway.

The Health and Safety Executive launched an investigation following the tragedy.

Police Scotland said they had been informed of the death, which was not being treated as suspicious, and a report was submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.

The first hearing of the FAI is to be held at Dumfries Sheriff Court in March.