First picture of 'lovely' shopkeeper who died at Scots village store as probe into death continues
21.08.2023 - 17:13
/ dailyrecord.co.uk
Tributes have been paid to a 'lovely' shopkeeper who tragically died at his store in Midlothian as a police investigation into his death remains ongoing.
Bashir Ahmed, 69, died at Best One on Main Street in Newtongrange at around 7pm on Friday. Police quickly launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Bashir's death and the shop was cordoned off.
Dozens of floral tributes have been laid outside the store and Bashir has been described as a "lovely man" by those who knew him.
A friend, Abdul Qadar, said: "[Bashir is] sadly no longer with us. He died at his Newtongrange shop. The shop was cordoned off and the police were still there the following day. Folk have laid down flowers."
Sharing a picture, Mian Tahir said: “My friend Bashir Ahmed during good times, sadly no longer with us. He died last night at his Newtongrange shop.”
Meanwhile MSP Bryan Pottinger for Midlothian East told Edinburgh Live: "I have known this well-respected trader for many years.
"Prior to the major premises “shop” refurbishment, Bashir and his daughter managed a friendly and very helpful Main Street post office/shop. My sincere condolences to his family and friends."
Councillor Stuart McKenzie told members of the Police and Fire and Rescue Board on Monday that the community of Newtongrange had been rocked by the 'tragic events' of the weekend.
Councillor McKenzie, board convenor, said: "Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Bash and anyone affected in the community."
Police attending the board meeting told members an investigation into the death was ongoing and officers were working to provide support to the family and the wider community.
The shopkeeper was well known in the community and on social media many