RAIL union RMT paid tribute today to “much-loved” train conductor Donald Dinnie following his tragic death in the Stonehaven rail accident in Scotland.

Mr Dinnie, 58, was one of three people killed when carriages of the 6.38am ScotRail service from Aberdeen to Glasgow Queen Street derailed as it hit a landslip caused by heavy rain. 

Driver Brett McCullough, 45 and passenger Christopher Stuchbury, 62, also lost their lives and six other people were injured in the crash.

RMT senior assistant general secretary Mick Lynch said: “On behalf of the union, I want to send condolences, support and solidarity to Donald Dinnie’s family‎, friends and colleagues. 

“It is absolutely clear that he was much loved and highly respected by all who knew him and his death is a tragedy that has shocked our entire industry. 

“We share the grief of those who were close to Donald.

“Donald's branch, Aberdeen 1, have told me that ‎he was an amazing person. He lit up every room he walked into with his cheery banter and stories. 

“Many knew Donald for most of his railway career as a driver and a guard. He was very much a family man and a valued, active and proud member of the RMT.

“His loss has cast a long shadow over his branch, his region and the whole national union.

“Our thoughts at this time are also with the driver,‎ Brett McCullough, a member of our sister union Aslef, and the passenger who also lost their lives in yesterday's incident.

"RMT will continue to provide whatever support we can to Donald’s family and colleagues at this terrible time. 

“We are united in both our grief and our determination to ensure that safety on our railways remains the absolute priority.”