Former Conservative MP Sir Albert McQuarrie – who was known as the “Buchan Bulldog” – has died at the age of 98.
Sir Albert served north-east Scotland for two terms, first in East Aberdeenshire from 1979 to 1983 and Banff and Buchan from 1983 to 1987 when he was defeated by SNP MP and future First Minister Alex Salmond.
Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson said: “Sir Albert was a tremendous servant to our party throughout his life.
“He was even out campaigning in Mintlaw on his mobility scooter at the recent general election. He had the same fighting spirit in politics as in life.
“The wishes of the entire Conservative Party are with his wife, Rhoda, and the wider family.”
Sir Albert – who lived in Mintlaw, Aberdeenshire – died peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday after turning 98 on January 1.
Mr Salmond said: “I am sorry to hear of the passing of Sir Albert McQuarrie. Sir Albert was my predecessor in Banff and Buchan constituency before 1987.
“He revelled in his title of the ‘Buchan Bulldog’ and we enjoyed some fierce political debates, as worthy opponents should.
“He will be much missed, obviously friends and family, but also the wider political and public life in Scotland.”