The Scottish social housing sector has paid tribute to Aberdeenshire Council’s head of housing Douglas Edwardson who died following a crash earlier this month.

Mr Edwardson, 58, passed away after a car and tractor collided on the A944 Dunecht to Alford road in Aberdeenshire on Saturday 5 December.

Relatives said in a statement issued through Police Scotland: “Douglas’ family are devastated to confirm that Douglas has died. They are very grateful for all the support they have received.”

Aberdeenshire Council chief executive Jim Savege said: “It is with great sadness that we have learned today of the death of one of our colleagues, Douglas Edwardson.

“Douglas was an incredibly warm, loyal and supportive colleague who will be greatly missed by many people right across this council.

“He had worked in the north east for more than 22 years, initially as director of housing and technical services with the former Banff and Buchan District Council, and was a well-known and respected figure in his role as head of service for housing with Aberdeenshire Council.

“Our thoughts are with his family, and for our colleagues who worked closely with Douglas over the years. We will be doing everything we can to ensure we provide them with the support they need.”

A number of professionals from around the sector took to social media and contacted Scottish Housing News to pay tribute to Mr Edwardson.

David Ogilvie, housing consultant and former head of policy and public affairs at CIH Scotland: “Terrible news for all who knew him. A very great loss to the Scottish housing sector. My thoughts with his family.”

Grant Ager, chief executive at Fairfield Housing Co-operative: “A thoroughly decent, hard working man. Sad loss to housing world & thoughts with family.”

Moira Bayne, CEO of Housing Options Scotland: “I would like to say it was a privilege to meet Douglas. A kind and generous man.”

Hillcrest Group: “Thoughts with his family from all at Hillcrest at this very sad time.”

Lesley Baird, chief executive of TPAS Scotland: “Douglas brought a wealth of knowledge & experience to our rural group, lovely man, will be hugely missed.”

Robina Qureshi from Positive Action in Housing: “We are so sad to hear of Douglas Edwardson’s tragic death. Everyone should know that he was a fine, decent and kind man who gave endless support to this charity. One of life’s great people who helped us do good things in the world. Sincere condolences to Douglas’ family.”

Glenn Adcook ‏, executive director of AHP Group: “Douglas Edwardson will be sorely missed - a truly wonderful man and consummate professional.”

Mary Taylor, chief executive of the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations: “I am so sad to hear about Douglas, and my thoughts are with his family and colleagues. He was incredibly well thought of, and he will be sorely missed by the sector.”

Alan Russell, senior housing manager at Fife Council: “Saddened by the untimely death of Douglas Edwardson, a wonderful colleague from my Dundee Council days.”

Silke Isbrand, COSLA: “Such a kind, generous and warm hearted man. Our thoughts are with his family.”

Anyone wishing to pay tribute to Douglas Edwardson can get in touch with Scottish Housing News and we will continue to publish your contributions.