Sad loss of Doon Valley councillor
POPULAR Doon Valley councillor Jim Sutherland has died.
The granddad lost his battle with cancer on Tuesday.
Family and friends are devastated by the news.
Colleagues on East Ayrshire Council paid tribute to the dedicated councillor.
Councillor Elaine Dinwoodie represented the Doon Valley ward along with Councillor Sutherland and Councillor Drew Filson.
She said: “This is a very sad day. Jim was an independent man who spoke his own mind.
“He worked very hard for the Doon Valley ward and will be missed.”
Councillor Sutherland, who lived in Drongan with his wife of around 30 years, Irene, was elected to the council two years ago. He served as its only Independent councillor.
Councillor Filson said: “Jim was a very genial character, full of fun, and someone who lived life to the full.
“He beat cancer once before, but sadly lost a long hard fight when it came back.
“I know he was dedicated to doing his best for the people of the Doon Valley.
“And the thoughts of many will be with his family at this sad time.”
Councillor Sutherland’s death will prompt a by-election.
And both Labour and SNP will be eager to win as they each have 14 seats on the council.
Until now the SNP have relied on Councillor Sutherland’s support and that of the three Tory councillors to hold on to power.
But even if Labour win the by-election it’s unlikely they will take control of the council as long at the Conservative group continue to work with the SNP.
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