THE family of a young workman killed in a Christmas Eve road crash have paid tribute to a "gentle giant" and "proud father".

Fraser Gibbon, 20, died when his green mini-loader was struck by a red Vauxhall Insignia while he worked on the side of the road just yards from his family home near Cuminestown, in Aberdeenshire, on Wednesday.

The collision occurred on the B9170 road at around 9.20am on Christmas Eve. An ambulance was called but Mr Gibbon, who had a young daughter, was declared dead at the scene.

A statement issued by his family yesterday said: "Fraser was ripped from our lives and has left a massive hole that can never be filled. Fraser was described by all who knew him as a gentle giant, very much a family person who would do anything for anyone".

They added that he was a "proud father, a doting uncle to two nieces and brother to three sisters who all loved him dearly. He was the precious and deeply loved only son of Anne and Donald, and has been taken from us far too soon.

"We would also like to offer sincere thanks to all who assisted at the scene".

Police have appealed for witnesses to come forward.

Sergeant Jon Barron, who is heading the investigation, said: "This is a harrowing incident that has very sadly resulted in the tragic loss of life.

"First and foremost, our thoughts at this particularly traumatic time are with Fraser's family and friends.

"Detailed inquiries are under way in order to establish the full circumstances.

"I would like to take this opportunity to urge any potential witnesses to come forward and speak to us.

"In particular, the inquiry team are interested in speaking to anyone who witnessed the actual collision, anyone who saw either of the vehicles - a green mini-loader and red Vauxhall Insignia motor car - prior to the incident or who may have been driving in the immediate area around the time."

Police have urged anyone with information to contact them on 101.