TRIBUTES have been paid to former East Ayrshire Provost Jimmy Boyd who has died at the age of 84.

A Cumnock resident, Jimmy served as a councillor for over 20 years at Strathclyde Regional Council and East Ayrshire Council.

He served as Provost of East Ayrshire from 1999 until his retirement in 2003 and was appointed an honorary president of the Robert Burns World Federation and later awarded honorary life membership.

As Provost, Jimmy served with distinction and dedication and following his retirement, he was awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.

Councillor Douglas Reid, leader of East Ayrshire Council, said: “Jimmy and I were both elected to East Ayrshire Council in 1995 and as a former Councillor at Strathclyde Regional Council, Jimmy brought his

considerable experience to the early days of our Council, which was so important in our formative years.

“He carried out his various roles with great distinction, pride and vigour and, when chairing

meetings, ensured that everyone was able to have their say.”

Provost Jim Todd said: “I recall when I became Provost, Jimmy gave me some very good advice about the role and was extremely supportive, something I have always been very grateful for.

“I send my deepest condolences to his family and friends who will all miss him greatly.”

Councillor John McGhee, leader of the Labour group, said: “Jimmy Boyd was a long standing member of the Labour Party, and he was a well-liked Councillor and Provost. Born and bred a Cumnock man and well respected in the community, Jimmy will be sorely missed by all who knew him.”

Councillor Tom Cook, leader of the Conservative group, said: “Although I never worked directly with Past-Provost Boyd, I had a connection with him through the Inter-Authority Bowling competitions which he still took part in even after his retiral. He was an enthusiastic and committed member of the team and it was a pleasure to have known him.”

Fiona Lees, East Ayrshire chief executive said: “I am so sorry to learn of Jimmy’s death. I knew Jimmy firstly as a Strathclyde Regional Councillor, where he was a leading light on the Council’s General Purposes and Social Work Committees.

“It was Jimmy that the newly-elected East Ayrshire Council turned to in 1995 to be the chairperson of its Social Work

Committee, a role he undertook with great understanding, know-ledge and pride: staff and service users alike responded to his

leadership and his contribution to the Social Work profession was respected nationally.

At all times, Jimmy was grounded in his community and as councillor and Provost, he endeared himself to so many, with his sense of fairness and compassion.”