Tribute after kayaker body find

Relatives said Mr Simpson loved outdoor activities

A kayaker whose body was found on a beach near Aberdeen has been named.

Alan Simpson, 38, of Newmachar, was found at Balmedie on Sunday. He appeared to have fallen from a kayak and was discovered by walkers.

Grampian Police described the student's death as a tragic accident but will investigate the circumstances.

Relatives said in a statement: "Alan was a much loved son, whose death in such sudden and unexpected circumstances has come as a huge blow."

They added: "A great lover of the outdoors, Alan was a keen cyclist, hill walker and kayaking enthusiast.

"He had latterly taken up a computer programming course at Robert Gordon University."

Ambulance and coastguard crews were involved in recovering his body from the beach.