Council expresses sympathy after road worker killed

The flag over the council offices, in Kirkwall, is flying at half-mast today as a mark of respect for Keith Johnston, a long-serving member of the Council’s roads team who was tragically killed while working yesterday morning.

Mr Johnston died following an accident involving a council-owned lorry, while works were being carried out on a section of road near Twatt, in Orkney’s West Mainland

Orkney Islands Council’s Chief Executive, Alistair Buchan, has today expressed sympathy on behalf of council staff and elected members.

Mr Johnston had worked for the Council since 1993 as a road worker and charge hand and, more recently, as an acting foreman.

Mr Buchan said: “On behalf of everyone at the Council I offer our condolences to all those affected by Keith’s death. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and workmates at this sad and very difficult time.

“Keith was a much valued member of staff and a highly skilled and experienced member of our roads team. He will be deeply missed by his colleagues.”

Mr Buchan added: “Alongside investigations by Police Scotland and the Health and Safety Executive, the Council is conducting its own internal inquiries into this tragic incident.”