A sheriff is to probe the death of a crofter who was found lying among his cattle on a Hebridean island.
Hector Macleod, 58, was working with the animals in a shed alone on Berneray when tragedy struck.
His body was later discovered by shocked neighbours.
Barriers to a pen containing a bull had been knocked over and the animal later put down.
A fatal accident inquiry will now be held at Lochmaddy Sheriff Court where the full circumstances surrounding his death last year will be investigated.
Mr Macleod was born on the island in the Outer Hebrides before leaving for the Merchant Navy and a 20-year career in the RAF.
He then returned to the island 13 years ago with his partner to take over three family crofts, including one belonging to his elderly mother.
Following his death, local community council chairman Donald MacLean said: “I don’t think we will ever know what happened, but Hector was working in the shed with all the cows and a bull. Somebody just found him among the cows.
“For a small place of 130 people it has come as a terrible shock. It is a terrible tragedy for a small place. We are all feeling it and our thoughts go out to his partner, mother and extended family.
“Hector will be a big loss to the community.”
The hearing is expected to begin in October.
