Shinty players from across Scotland have paid tribute to one of the most talented players of the sport, who has died suddenly.
Andy MacKintosh, 31, the captain of Newtonmore Shinty Club when it lifted both the Camanachd Cup in 2018, and the Mactavish Cup the same year, died on Wednesday.
Andy, a dad himself, was the son of Iain Mackintosh who captained the side in its Camanachd Cup victory in 1986.
He was known as one of the pillars of the Newtonmore defence.
He had played for both the under 21s and full international Scotland shinty team.
He was named as the man of the match in the 2016 Camanachd Cup, winning the Albert Smith medal.
He was the team captain in the 2018 season and a joiner by trade.
In a brief statement, the club president, Norman MacArthur said: “The whole village is devastated.”
It is understood Mr MacKintosh died from a medical emergency.
In a post on social media, Newtonmore Camanachd Club said: “There literally aren’t any words to convey our feelings at the club today.
“Our love, prayers and every waking thought are with Megan, Marnie, Hadley, Iain, Christine, Alison, the MacKintosh family and all of Andy’s many, many friends, we send our deepest condolences to them all.
“The darkest of shadows has been cast as Andy’s bright light has gone from us, the shinty world and our community.”
Renowned shinty commentator Hugh Dan MacLennan wrote: “I cannot recall the shinty community ever being tested like this in my lifetime.
“It is an apparently endless list of good people taken far to soon.
“There are no words which can be of comfort but the images may say more than anyone can right now. My deepest sympathies to everyone concerned.”
Lora Robertson said: “Heartbreaking to hear about this, thoughts are with all family and friends.”
Easton Thain said: “What utterly dreadful news and my thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones and friends at this sad time.
“Tragic that one so young has been taken from us. Puts the game into prospective.”
Robert “Bobo” Morrison said: “Tragic news to hear of Andy taken from our world so young. Hearts, thoughts and condolences go to the immediate MacKintosh family his other family at Newtonmore Shinty Club and his many many friends he has made in his to short a life. ”
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