Following the announcement of the death of former councillor Jim MacLeod, Councillor Stephen McCabe, leader of Inverclyde Council, and Councillor Elizabeth Robertson, chair of the Inverclyde Alliance Board, said:

“It’s terribly sad news that Jim has passed away. Our thoughts are with his wife Sylvia, his family and his many friends at this very difficult time.

“Jim was a proud Portonian and was a fantastic advocate for the town of Port Glasgow and indeed the whole of Inverclyde during his 15 years as a councillor.

“We worked closely with Jim and got to know him very well through the active role he played in the council and external organisations.

“Jim served as a leader and depute leader of his group, was on just about every committee and board, and represented the council on various outside groups.

“He carried out his duties with passion, enthusiasm, diligence, and dedication.

“Jim campaigned for fairness and equality and was a shining light for disability rights.

“He had such a positive impact on the lives of so many people throughout Inverclyde and will be hugely missed.”