Tributes to ‘one-off colossus’ of Scottish farming industry

DEATH: Ex-ANM Group chief Brian Pack was ‘hugely respected figure’

Tributes have been paid to the former chief executive of north-east farmers’ co-operative ANM Group, Brian Pack, who has died at the age of 74.

Mr Pack was a well-known and highly respected member of the agricultural community in the north-east and throughout Scotland.

In 1999, he was made an OBE for services to agriculture, and in 2014 he authored an influential Scottish Government report into cutting red tape in the farming sector.

In 2017, he was given an honorary degree from Aberdeen University, and he was the recipient of various industry awards including the Royal Northern Agricultural Society and Press and Journal Award for outstanding services to agriculture and the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland’s Lifetime Achievement award.

Former rural affairs secretary Richard Lochhead MSP paid tribute to Mr Pack, describing him as a “one-off colossus in the Scottish agri-business and rural sector”.

“Few people had such a wealth of knowledge about the industry and such a firm grasp of often complex issues,” said Mr Lochhead.

“He was a much-loved character who commanded enormous respect throughout many circles and will be sorely missed.”

ANM Group chief executive Grant Rogerson said Mr Pack’s “knowledge, experience and great wit” would be greatly missed.

He added: “Brian proudly served as ANM’s chief executive for 20 years and has many friends and colleagues across the group.

“He was a hugely respected figure, trusted colleague and friend and worked tirelessly for the good of the agricultural industry as a whole throughout his career.”

Mr Pack is survived by his wife Pam, sons David and Alan and three grandchildren.

Brian Pack received numerous awards, including an honorary degree from Aberdeen University in 2017.