Perth and Kinross Council leader Ian Campbell has died suddenly at the age of 66, the local authority has confirmed.

Mr Campbell became the local authority’s leader last year, having been a councillor for the Highland ward since 2007.

His Conservative colleague, Councillor Murray Lyle, spoke of his shock at his sudden death.

Speaking on behalf of Perth & Kinross Council, Councillor Lyle 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.”

A statement from Scottish Secretary David Mundell and Conservative MEP Ian Duncan added: “Councillor Ian Campbell was a larger than life character who will be missed by all who knew him, whatever their political allegiance.

“His sudden passing will leave a gulf in Perth City Chamber that will be all but impossible to fill.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Pam, his children and his grandchildren.”