Farmer, 71, dies in horror from a ‘cow attack’ as a heartbroken family speaks of their devastation

Derek Roan’s family has been milking cows for six generations and the grandfather has also been credited with bringing everyone in the local community together through his tireless work

A “popular and respected” farmer died in a horror cow attack as his heartbroken family paid tribute.

Derek Roan, 71, was attacked by a cow at Barnbarroch Farm near Colvend, Scotland.

The farmer was a popular figure in the community and, as chairman of the community council, was described as having “a special talent” for bringing people together.

The Scottish grandfather was taken to Dumfries and Galloway’s Royal Infirmary following Sunday’s horror incident but sadly died shortly afterwards.

His loved ones confirmed his death in a moving statement released through family business Roan’s Dairy Daily record reports.

His family has been milking purebred Holstein cows at Barnbarroch for six generations.

They said: “It is with the deepest sadness that I announce the tragic death at Barnbarroch Farm of Derek Roan, beloved husband to Kathleen, devoted father to Stuart, Steven, Leeanne, father-in-law to Aylett, Tracey and Tony and proud dad to Fergus. Fraser, Andrew, Lucy, Daisy and Skye.

“We are completely devastated and still in shock at what happened and it will take some time for us to come to terms with not having him with us.

“All of Derek’s hard work has focused on his two passions in life – his family and his farms.

“Derek was well known in the farming community and in many other circles. He will be sorely missed by all.

“We would like to thank everyone who has offered their condolences at this difficult time for us.”

As Chairman of Colvend and Southwick Community Council, Mr Roan played a huge part in local life and was praised for his influence.

Vice-Chairman and friend Simon Pain said: “This is an absolute tragedy for everyone involved. All I know is that it was an inventory-related injury on the farm itself.

“Derek was very well loved and respected in our community.”

Acknowledging Mr Roan’s particular talent for bringing people together for the good of all, Mr Pain added: “I think Derek has changed the role of the local council within the community.

“He has made it a lot more active and has helped develop a whole range of projects for the benefit of the community.

“He played a leading role in the construction of the new leisure site behind Colvend Primary School.

“And he pioneered community engagement, bringing people together and moving people to help one another.

“This was particularly important during the pandemic,

“A big part of all of that was thanks to Derek’s leadership.”

Mr Pain continued: “Derek has been a leading figure in our Parish Council for a number of years, most of them as Chairman, and in the Church of Scotland at Colvend.

“He was also an active member of the local curling club – he was involved in all sorts of things.

“Please convey the family’s best wishes and condolences from the community.”

Mr Roan, who is well known in the farming community, was Past Chairman of the Stewartry Young Farmers’ Club, Past Chairman of the Regional Board of NFUS Dumfries and Galloway and Chairman of the Solway Burns Club.

A statement from Police Scotland said: “On Monday 20 June 2022 we were made aware of the death of a 71-year-old man at Dumfries and Galloway’s Royal Infirmary.

“The death is not being treated as suspicious and a report has been filed with prosecutors.”