Tributes paid to Black Isle Councillor

Tributes have been paid to Councillor Billy Barclay, who died suddenly on Wednesday. Councillor Barclay was 62.

He is survived by his wife Jennifer, and children, Christopher, Mark, Stephen and Paula.

Billy farmed for many years at Boggiewell Farm, Fortrose.

An Independent Councillor, he was elected to The Highland Council to serve Avoch and Fortose in May 2003. He was returned resoundlingly to Ward 10 Black Isle in May 2007 and again in May 2012.

He served on the TECs Committee and took a great interest in roads and transport issues.

As a mark of respect, business at today’s scheduled full council meeting was restricted to urgent business.

Monday’s scheduled meeting of the Skye, Ross and Cromarty Area Committee in Dingwall has been postponed.

Council Leader Drew Hendry said: “Billy was hard working, well liked and respected by all those on the council and in his community where he worked tirelessly on issues which were important to the people who came to see him. He will be sorely missed, both by his colleagues and as a good friend to me and many.  Our sincerest sympathies are extended to his family and close friends at this sad time.”

Councillor Carolyn Wilson, Leader of the Opposition, said: “Billy was an exceptional councillor, who cared passionately about the people of the Black Isle.  He was a dear colleague – the best anyone could ask for – who provided sound advice to many over the years.  He was a hands-on councillor.   No matter whether it was a housing or a roads matter, or helping the young or the old, he got things done.  He was a good friend, a good neighbour and most of all he was a family man.”

Depute Leader David Alston, a fellow Black Isle Councillor, said: “Billy cared deeply about the Black Isle and he will be remembered both for the great pride he took in farming its land and for his commitment to representing its people.”

Convener Councillor Jimmy Gray said: “Billy’s intimate local knowledge made him an extremely popular and effective local councillor.  I cannot speak highly enough of the care and attention Billy gave to Council business and of the courtesy and consideration he always showed to fellow councillors and Council staff.”