A popular colleague from Edinburgh has tragically been found dead in his home after not showing up for work on Monday morning.
Jimmy Meikle, 54, had sadly passed away and was discovered by police and his close friend and boss Richard O'Donnell on Tuesday, December 13.
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Richard told how he had known Jimmy as both a friend and employee for over a decade grew concerned after his out-of-character no-show.
The death came as a huge shock to Richard who described the 54-year-old as being as fit as a fiddle and a wonderful, kind person. He explained that the two had worked together at Richard's trade company for 16 years.
Police Scotland are understood to be establishing the full circumstances behind his death.
Speaking to Edinburgh Live Richard said: "I'm unbelievably saddened that Jimmy has passed away suddenly. He didn’t attend work which is unlike him - he’s never been late or off work in over 16 years working for me.
"Police were called and sadly when we attended they put his door in and it was confirmed that he had sadly passed away. I’ve known Jimmy since I was 14. He doesn’t have much family so he’s been my main and protected employee."
The pair had a close relationship and Jimmy had seemed fine the week before - so the tragic loss was a huge shock for Richard.
He continued: "He always did everything for me and he’s watched lots come and go but he’s been at Insurepair Group the entire time. He’s never been late, he’s never been off sick and he’s multi-skilled so unbelievably great at his job.
"He was loved by the entire company. Jimmy was a loveable and polite little guy. Everyone loved him. He was shy and well-spoken. There was nothing he couldn’t do at his work and he would always help. He was also the strongest guy you could meet.
"Jimmy was only 54. Fit as a fiddle. He should’ve had 40 years left on this planet. It’s a huge shock. He truly was a gentleman and always had a kind word for all."
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Tributes have poured in for the Buckstone local who was described as a kind soul and a gentleman.
Will Heatlie said: "No way! wee Jimmy was an awesome wee dude, always put a smile on your face no matter the job."
John Toms said: "Absolutely devastated. Jimmy and I met only briefly but I could immediately grasp his warmth and his devotion to the tasks. I also felt he was a trusted person and trustworthy."
While Billy Somerville added: "That's so sad to hear, remember Jimmy from the Angle Club days and more recently cutting about Buckstone, always got a tip of the flat cap and a wee smile. Top bloke."
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 3.10pm on Monday, 12 December, 2022, a man was found dead within a property in the Buckstone area of Edinburgh. The death is not thought to be suspicious and a report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal."
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