Tribute have been paid to the former Inverness South Ward Councillor Jim Crawford, after he passed away in his home at the weekend.

Convener of The Highland Council, Cllr Bill Lobban and Provost of Inverness and Area Cllr Helen Carmichael have paid tribute to Mr Crawford after he died suddenly.

Mr Crawford was elected as a Highland Councillor for the Inverness South Ward in 2012, and 2007 and served as an Independent Councillor and then Non-Aligned Councillor in 2008.

He supported new planning policies introduced to protect the historic Culloden Battlefield area.

Convener Lobban said: “I was truly saddened to hear that Jim had passed away as I have such fond memories of him in his last term in the Council especially his involvement with planning.

"He was a man who always stood up for his community without hogging the limelight and I feel sure he will be sorely missed not just by his family and friends, to whom I extend my deepest sympathy, but also the wider community as they have lost a really stalwart supporter.”

Provost Carmichael added: “The sudden passing of our former colleague Jim Crawford has brought immense sadness to councillors and staff who served with him.

"On behalf of Inverness City Councillors we extend our sincere condolences to his family and friends.

"On a personal note I was immensely privileged, when in 2015 Jim helped make history and seconded the nomination by Councillor Margaret Davidson to elect me as the first female Provost of Inverness.

"I am forever grateful to Jim for his support shown to me.”