Tributes were paid last night to "one of the most inspiring documentary film-makers of his generation", after the death of David Peat at the age of 65.
Mr Peat, born in 1947, became best known for documentaries on subjects as diverse as Billy Connolly and violinist Stephane Grappelli, as well as ordinary people's lives and work.
Over a 40-year career, his award-winning films brought "insight and a sense of humanity" to a wide range of subjects, the director of BBC Scotland, Ken MacQuarrie, said. With film director Murray Grigor he shot Big Banana Feet in 1976, which followed comedian Connolly on a tour of Ireland at the height of the Troubles.
Mr Peat, who was suffering from a type of cancer called myeloma, was working until recently on a BBC Scotland programme about his work as a film-maker and a photographer – A Life in Film: David Peat.
Mr MacQuarrie said: "David Peat was one of the most committed, passionate and inspiring documentary film-makers of his generation in Scotland, forging his way first as a cameraman and then as a director. He brought his insight and sense of humanity to a wide range of projects.
"Without exception, he treated everyone with dignity, respect and sensitivity and viewed his working life as a privilege.
"Broadcasting and film- making will be much the poorer for his passing and our thoughts go out to his wife, Patricia and children, Duncan and Rosie and many friends at this sad time."
Last night Mr Grigor said: "Nothing better captured the wry wit of David than at the recent Glasgow Film Festival screening of Big Banana Feet, our film on Billy Connolly's first Irish jaunt in 1975.
"'If you drown in your tears laughing, there are life vests under your seats,' said David to a laughter-convulsed audience, 'and if you find Billy's patter just too inflammatory, the fire exits are left and right.'"
Broadcaster Kirsty Wark, who worked with Mr Peat on her own show, added: "David Peat was one of the most talented, passionate and knowledgeable director/producers.
"I feel privileged to have known him."
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