Tributes have poured in after the death of an Aberdeenshire councillor who served his constituents for more than 12 years.
John Duncan, in his early 80s, formerly of Lower Cushnie, Gamrie, was a Conservative who represented Troup since triumphing in a 2002 by-election.
He sat on the social work and housing committee and championed older people.
Last night colleagues and friends of Mr Duncan spoke fondly of the retired farmer.
Fellow Conservative and leader of Aberdeenshire Council Jim Gifford said: “The word that comes up time and again is gentleman.
“John was such a nice guy. He didn’t involved himself in all the nonsense behind politics.
“Even though John was in his 80s, there was nothing that was going to stop him and he was returning from Thursday’s social work and housing committee meeting when he was taken ill.”
Robert Thomas, chairman of the Banff and Buchan Conservatives, served as a councillor alongside Mr Duncan.
He said: “He will be a great loss, both personally and politically.
“He’s not enjoyed good health over the last few years but he would always attend meetings when he was able.
“He thoroughly enjoyed his role as a councillor and being able to help people.
“It was never a burden for him, and he would never have wanted to let anybody down.”
Aberdeenshire Provost Jill Webster said she was “very sad” to hear of his death, and described him as a “respected colleague”.
The flag at Aberdeenshire Council’s Woodhill House headquarters in Aberdeen is flying at half-mast in Mr Duncan’s memory.
He is survived by his sons John and Alan, daughter Aileen, his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.