One of the best known livestock procurement agents in the country has died at the age of 64.
Joseph Greenhill Joe as he was known was a regular ringside figure at auction marts on a weekly basis, particularly at Thainstone and Forfar.
He bought cattle at the marts and privately for AP Jess, John Scott Meats and local butchers.
He was still sourcing cattle right up until the week of his death.
Joe was also a sought-after judge and over his career placed classes and selected champions at major events such as the Royal Highland Show, the Royal Welsh Show and the Scottish National Fatstock Club’s Winter Fair.
He also judged frequently at the Christmas Classic and the September Spectacular Calf Show.
He judged at many smaller events, too, and seemed to draw equal pleasure and satisfaction from judging these local shows.
Joe was particularly honoured to be asked to chose the Champion of Champions at Keith Show this August.
This competition is between show supreme champions from throughout Scotland and provides a line-up of cattle hard to match anywhere.
Joe was born at Pitmuies Mill, Friockheim, in 1951 shortly before the family moved to Whitewell, near Forfar.
He was educated at Forfar West Primary and Forfar Academy.
After leaving school he went home to the family farm and soon became a very enthusiastic member of Forfar and District JAC and Fothringham Curling Club.
After a period farming in Devon he moved back to Scotland and a post as beef manager at Mains of Bogfechel, Whiterashes.
Thereafter, he bought livestock in his own name and as a procurement agent.
Joe’s interest in livestock was lifelong and went back to long before he was gifted an Aberdeen Angus cow and calf as a 21st birthday present.
He is survived by his sister Moira and brother Grahame and their families.
Joe’s funeral will be held today at 12.45pm in Lowson Memorial Church, Forfar.