Pilot killed in gyrocopter crash 'died doing what he loved'

A pilot who died when a gyrocopter crashed in a field in the Black Isle has been named.

Paul Nichol, from Balloch, Moray, was killed when the light aircraft came down near Avoch, on the Moray Firth.

Police Scotland said Mr Nichol was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash on Thursday, November 12.

His family said he lost his life “doing something he loved so much”.

“It was the freedom that flying gave him; the sense of adventure, the chance to feel challenged and to explore,” they added in a statement released by police.

“Always keen to learn new things and be outside doing something, he was rarely still, always getting on with tasks and planning new projects and loving life.

The crash happened in a field in the Black Isle. STV News

“Life can never be the same without him. Words can’t express how much I’ll miss him, as will all his family, friends and past work colleagues. Nothing will ever get close to explaining the depth of pain and sadness we all feel.”

Police are still trying to piece together the final moments of the gyrocopter’s journey and appealed for witnesses to come forward.

Detective inspector Brian Geddes said: “I would like to send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Paul at this very difficult time.

“Our investigation into the circumstances of the crash remain ongoing. I would continue to urge anyone who may have seen the gyrocopter in the air, during or after the incident to please contact police. We are keen to also speak to anyone who may have images or video footage.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police either via 101, quoting incident number 1385 of November 12, or via the online portal set up for this incident.