Tributes paid to Inverness councillor who died suddenly while on holiday

Tributes have been paid to Highland councillor John Ford, who died suddenly this week while on holiday.

The Labour councillor had represented the Culloden and Ardersier ward in Inverness on Highland Council since 2003.

Councillor Jimmy Gray, leader of the council’s Labour group, said: “I had the pleasure of knowing John for many years.  

“He was a deeply caring person, a very conscientious councillor and great company.  

“He was respected right across the political spectrum thanks to his sense of fairness. So many people will be saddened by this loss.” 

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Highland Council leader Councillor Margaret Davidson said: “John was a tremendous leader in his community and made a big contribution during his many years on the council. 

“I have called on his energy expertise on many occasions, particularly when dealing with hydro scheme applications. We will all have good memories of John will miss him.”

Provost Helen Carmichael, who chairs the City of Inverness Committee, said: "John was a very hard working and conscientious councillor, who was very close to the community he served.

“He was a popular member of the council and will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

“His attention to detail and scrutiny of detailed financial matters was second to none.  

“He certainly was a great help and inspiration to me and I am sure all my fellow councillors will have lots of special memories of him. Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time."