Body of Scottish farmer recovered from river during Storm Babet

Police Scotland has confirmed a woman has died after being swept into a Scottish river during Storm Babet.

Officers said the body of 57-year-old Wendy Taylor was recovered from the Water of Lee in Glen Esk at 4pm on Thursday (October 19).

There were no suspicious circumstances surrounding Mrs Taylor's death and a report has been submitted to the procurator fiscal, police confirmed.

RSABI paid tribute to her on Monday (October 23) and said she had 'many friends in the Scottish farming community'.

Farmers Guardian understands Mrs Taylor farmed with her husband George and together they ran Taylors Snacks Group, formerly Machie's Crisps.

They lived at Baldowrie near Coupar Angus but the farming business is based at Moncur Farm in the Carse of Gowrie.

Both sides of the farming family are well known in the Perthshire area, having run businesses there for more than 100 years.

Mr Taylor co-founded East Coast Viners.

She has been described as 'vivacious and vibrant' by those who knew her. 

A statement from Mrs Taylor's family was released to Police Scotland to remember a ‘caring wife, mother, and grand-mother'.

The statement said: "We are absolutely heartbroken to lose Wendy in such tragic circumstances.

"We are still struggling to come to terms with it.

"Wendy was a beautiful, kind, funny and caring person.

"She was a ray of sunshine for everyone who was fortunate enough to know her.

"Wendy was the beloved wife, best friend and soulmate in life to George, mother to James, Sally and Susanna, and Granny to India and George.

"Our family would like to thank Police Scotland for their professionalism and sensitivity in recent days.

"And in particular Paul Morgan of Police Mountain Rescue for recovering Wendy.

"Thank you to all of our extended family and friends for supporting us through this indescribably difficult time."