Tributes to Perthshire businesswoman killed in storm
- Published
Wendy Taylor's body was recovered from the Water of Lee, Glen Esk, on Thursday
Tributes have been paid to a Perthshire businesswoman who died after being swept away in an Angus river during Storm Babet.
The body of Wendy Taylor, 57, was recovered from the Water of Lee, Glen Esk, at about 16:00 on Thursday.
Mrs Taylor was a director at the Errol-based Taylor's Snacks, previously known as Mackie's.
She was also the secretary and a director of Taypack Potatoes, along with her husband George.
The Taylor family bought out ice-cream producer Mackie's of Scotland's share in Mackie's at Taypack last year.
The two companies had run it as a joint venture since 2009.
Mrs Taylor was reported missing on Thursday afternoon as parts of the country were hit by torrential rain and severe winds.
Officers said there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding her death and a report would be submitted to the procurator fiscal.
Perthshire North MSP John Swinney said he was "terribly saddened" at the news of Mrs Taylor's death.
He said: "Wendy was an influential and much-loved figure in the Perthshire business community.
"Her loss will be felt acutely by all those who knew her both professionally and personally.
"Wendy was known her kindness and her wisdom. I hope that the outpouring of good wishes from the public will provide some comfort to her family."
Vicki Unite, chief executive of Perthshire Chamber of Commerce, said the organisation was "devastated" by Ms Taylor's death.
"She helped take the Perthshire family business to great heights, enabling it achieve global recognition while retaining its local base.
"Our condolences go out to her family at this sad time," she said.
'Funny and caring person'
Lord-Lieutenant for Perth and Kinross Stephen Leckie wrote on Facebook: "We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of Wendy Taylor.
"Our thoughts are with her husband George and their children James, Sally and Susanna and grandchildren India and George."
In a statement, released through Police Scotland on Sunday, Ms Taylor's family said they were "absolutely heartbroken" to lose her in such tragic circumstances.
They said: "Wendy was a beautiful, kind, funny and caring person.
"She was a ray of sunshine for everyone who was fortunate enough to know her.
"Wendy was the beloved wife, best friend and soulmate in life to George, mother to James, Sally and Susanna and Granny to India and George.
"Thank you to all of our extended family and friends for supporting us through this indescribably difficult time."