PERTH and Kinross Council leader Ian Campbell has died suddenly.

Campbell had been the council leader since last year, and a councillor of the the Highland ward since 2007.

Councillor Murray Lyle, speaking on behalf of Perth & Kinross Council, said: "It is with the greatest shock and sadness that we have learned our friend and colleague Ian Campbell has died suddenly.

"As an elected member for Highland Perthshire since 2007, leader of the Council's Conservative Group since 2016, and most recently as leader of Perth & Kinross Council, Ian has been a dedicated and passionate advocate for this area.

"His commitment to education, healthcare, and championing rural Perthshire was clear to everyone who met him. He was dedicated to his duties as a local Councillor, attending each of the 11 Community Councils in Highland Perthshire. I was proud to work alongside him.

"The whole Council sends its condolences to Ian's wife Pam, his daughters, and grandchildren at this very sad time."

Deputy First Minister John Swinny shared his condolences on Twitter, saying: "Very sorry to hear of the death of @PerthandKinross Leader Ian Campbell. My condolences to his family and his colleagues."

Campbell was born and brought up in Glasgow. He was 66.