Tributes to former Councillor Gregor Rimell

The Highland Council has paid tribute to former Highland Councillor Gregor Rimell who sadly passed on Thursday 28 August 2025.

Convener of The Highland Councill Cllr Bill Lobban said: “On behalf of The Highland Council I extend our deepest condolences to Gregor’s family and friends. I was greatly saddened to learned of the passing of my colleague and friend.

“Gregor went above and beyond the call of duty in serving his community and he did so without fear or favour to anyone. He fought hard for the whole of Badenoch and Strathspey, not just one small part of it. Every corner of the strath has benefitted from his hard work and dedication. With Gregor we were never political opponents we were part of a team serving our community.

“The world is a sadder and poorer place with his passing, and I will miss his intellect, his sage advice and most especially his sense of humour.”

Cllr Muriel Cockburn added: “I was sorry to hear this sad news. I worked with Gregor over the years, mainly in his role as chair of the access panel. We always had many great conversations and many a laugh. Gregor cared about the community and had a sharp eye for detail. My condolences go to all his family.”

Cllr Alasdair Christie said: “Gregor was a popular Councillor who worked hard for the folk he represented. He was totally committed to doing all he could for the whole of Badenoch and Strathspey and tirelessly campaigned throughout his time on the Council. My thoughts are with his family at this sad time.”

Gregor was elected to serve on The Highland Council for three consecutive terms. He was first elected in 2003 for the Badenoch East Ward and then re-elected again in 2007 and 2012 in the Badenoch and Strathspey Ward.

Throughout his service he was Chair of the Badenoch and Strathspey Area Education, Culture and Sport Committee and was a Member of various committee and boards including Planning, Environment and Development; Audit and Scrutiny; and Resources Committee.

He also served on the Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey Licensing Committee and Licensing Board; the Housing and Social Work Committee; Renewing Democracy and Community Planning Select; Sustainable Development Select; and Land and Environment.

Gregor’s commitment to his local community was demonstrated through the various directorships he previously held, for example with:

• Grantown Heritage and Museum Trust;
• Community Violence and Abuse Support Service; and
• Badenoch and Strathspey Community Connexions.