One of Scotland’s best-known farmers has died at the age of 72.
Allan Neill, of Thorngreen, Blairgowrie, a former Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS) director, was well-recognised as a man with a huge knowledge of the country’s farms and farmers.
Although primarily an arable and soft fruit producer, his interests in the industry were wide-ranging and included breeding and showing pedigree Suffolk sheep.
Allan was born in Dundee in September 1943 and lived his early years on the family farm at Cowford, Menmuir.
His father, James, headed north with the family to North Bathelnie near Old Meldrum in 1948.
After eight years in Aberdeenshire they moved to Isla Park on the outskirts of Coupar Angus.
Over the years the business expanded steadily, notably with the acquisition of Thorngreen in 1961, which was to become home to Allan and his wife Ella for more than 50 years.
It was at Thorngreen they brought up their three children Douglas, Marion and Graeme.
Wester Denhead at Coupar Angus, where the business is now based, was added later and most recently Kercock and Bishophall farms at Ballathie were purchased.
Allan started his public life as chairman of Blairgowrie Young Farmers Club.
Apart from his RHASS directorship, he was president of Alyth Show, a Perth Show director, president of Ardblair Curling Club and chairman of Blairgowrie’s Braemar Day.
His interests outwith the farm saw him taking up a number of directorships in businesses involved with marketing potatoes and soft fruit.
Allan’s hobbies included fishing, shooting, horse racing and reading.
There is to be service of thanksgiving at Blairgowrie Parish Church on Thursday at 11.30am.