Tributes to former Highland Councillor

Tributes have been made to former Highland Councillor for the Aird and Loch Ness Ward Hamish Wood who has passed away.

Representing the Scottish Liberal Democrats, Hamish was a Member of the Council from 2007-2017. During this period he served on the Education, Culture and Sport Committee, the Finance, Housing and Resources Committee and the Planning, Environment and Development Committee. He was also on the Licensing Committee and a very active member of the City of Inverness Committee.

The Highland Council Convener, Cllr Bill Lobban said: “I was truly saddened to hear that Hamish had passed away as I have such fond memories of him. He always took his social responsibilities seriously and spoke up many times for those less fortunate. He was a passionate champion of Fair Trade, spearheading a campaign for the Highlands to attain Scotland Fairtrade Zone status. He also played a pivotal role in the planning of the visit by the Dali Lama to Inverness in 2012. Leading up to the event in Eden Court, he engaged with local schools and made sure as many young people as possible had the opportunity to play their part on what was a very memorable occasion.

“When he stood down as a Councillor I missed his thoughtful comments during debates and the quiet way he went about his job, contributing at both a local and strategic level to the work of the Council and demonstrating a great compassion for his constituents. He will be sorely missed, not just by his family and friends, to whom I extend my deepest sympathy, but also the wider community.”

Speaking on behalf of the Scottish Liberal Democrat Councillors, Cllr Alex Graham, who served on the Council with Hamish said: “Hamish was a man of great determination and strong principles, living very much in accordance with his deeply held faith.

“He was a former Assistant Principal at Inverness College UHI, dedicated to education and to helping others. A staunch Liberal, Hamish worked hard for his constituents during a decade of service on The Highland Council, refusing to slow down even as his health declined.

“Outwith the Council he was active in voluntary organisations, including the Samaritans, and was a passionate champion of sport and in particular cycling.”

The Leader of the Council, Cllr Margaret Davidson who represented the Aird and Loch Ness Ward during the same period as Hamish said: “Hamish was always community focused and a great support with ward work. He had the ability to see the wider picture. His dedication shone through everything he did. I’m sure everyone who had the privilege of serving with him will have their own special memories. My enduring memory of Hamish is how he used his bike to go around the ward and his pure delight when he met the Dalai Lama in Inverness.  Rest in peace Hamish and our thoughts go to his family at this sad time.”