A public service in memory of Charles Kennedy will be held in Dingwall later this month, which will recall the former MP’s long attachment to Ross-shire’s county town.
Although the boundaries of his constituency changed significantly during his 32 years as an MP, Dingwall remained at its heart and he had an office in the town throughout his career.
He died on June 1 at his home near Fort William. He will be remembered by the local community people at Dingwall's St Clement's Church on Monday 24 August from 6pm.
The service will be led by Father Roddy Macaulay, parish priest at St John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Caol, who preached the homily at Charles Kennedy's funeral. Scottish Liberal Democrat Leader Willie Rennie will deliver a tribute and music composed by Mr Kennedy's late musician father Ian, to mark his son's election to Parliament in 1983, will be performed by the Kiltearn Fiddlers.
Chairman of the Ross, Skye and Lochaber Liberal Democrats Duncan Mackay said:
"So many people all over the Highlands were proud to call Charles Kennedy a friend. I know the family has been overwhelmed by the extraordinary number of kind messages and fond memories they have received in the weeks following his sudden and very sad passing.
"Dingwall played a central part in Charles' political life and many people have asked for a service locally to remember him. I am enormously grateful to the congregation of St Clement's for enabling the use of their church and to Father Roddy Macaulay for giving his time to lead the service."
He said the service was an opportunity for all who knew him to remember and celebrate his contribution he made to the communities of the Highlands. "Anyone who would like to attend will be very welcome," he said.
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