The Games Committee was deeply saddened today when it learned of the passing of former Clackmannanshire Provost, Derek Stewart. He had been the Chairman of the Games Committee for a considerable period of time and played a pivotal role in the 150th Games in 2006 and for more than a decade after that.

He had been a Councillor for Sauchie for over 30 years and Provost three times. He was awarded the Freedom of Clackmannanshire two years ago for all that he did for the County and Sauchie in particular. He and his ever present companion, the late Bobby McGill, were a formidable double act both at Council and generally and both came to the Games every year until Bobby's unexpected passing. We still present trophies named after both of them in the Under 14 Hill Races.

He had not been in the best of health in recent years but he bore all that life threw at him with remarkable fortitude. Our thoughts are with his wife and wider family at this very sad time. He was a one-off and we may not see his like again.