It is thought that the tractor accident which killed Harry Emslie was caused by his dog activating the controls.

© STV

An inquiry into the death of a farmer killed by a tractor in Aberdeenshire is set to begin.

The body of cattle breeder and show judge Harry Emslie was found beside his cab by his daughter at his farm near Mintlaw.

It is thought that the 67-year-old farmer may have been crushed against a wall by the tractor's loader after the control's were activated by his dog.

A fatal accident inquiry into his death is due to be held at Peterhead Sheriff Court on Monday.

An investigation involving the Health and Safety Executive was launched after the fatal accident at Brae of Coynach Farm in June 2008.

Mr Emslie ran one of the biggest cattle operations in the north-east and was described as a "larger-than-life" character.

He had won numerous awards across Britain for prime cattle and judged competitions throughout the country.