The family of a former headteacher who died of sepsis are raising cash for a charity in his memory.
Tom Rankin, who lived in Askernish, was the headmaster of Daliburgh Primary School in Uist between 1981 and 2009, and went on to volunteer with various community projects.
He died suddenly and unexpectedly at the end of April.
His relatives have now launched an online fundraiser to help prevent other families losing their loved ones to septicaemia.
In a note written on their fundraising page, they said: “If you’ve reached this page it’s because you know our husband, dad and grandad, Tom. He died suddenly on 26th April 2019 from sepsis.
“He was an amazing man, generous in time and deed, loved and respected by all who met him, whether as a teacher, headmaster or a member of the community.
“We are heartbroken that he was taken from us so suddenly and in this way.
“Hopefully our donations will help prevent other families suffering the way we are.”
Sepsis kills 52,000 people a year in the UK and over a quarter of survivors suffer life-changing effects and long-term problems.
Pledging a donation to the online fundraiser, a spokeswoman for Cothrom Ormiclate, a community and development organisation in South Uist, described the teacher as a “true gentleman who will be sadly missed by staff and learners at Cothrom”.
Neighbour Ian Thompson added: “Privileged and honoured to have Tom as our friend and neighbour for the past nine years here at Askernish.
“He will be sadly missed. Our thoughts are with Jean and her family at this sad time. ”
While one of his former pupils, Neil Macinnes, said: “Rest in peace sir, fond memories of my time in Daliburgh school with you in charge.”
And another former student, Mary Macintyre, said: “I’ve known Tom as my headmaster when I started in Daliburgh school and when I returned home in 1992 I was privileged to see him on a regular basis as his hairdresser.
“A true gentleman. Loved by all.”
The family has so far raised more than £600 for the UK Sepsis Trust. Donations can be made by searching for the name Tom Rankin on the www.justgiving.com website.
Sepsis, also known as blood poisoning, is caused by the body’s immune system working overtime to fight infection.
It can initially appear to be flu, gastroenteritis or a chest infection.
If not treated immediately, sepsis can result in organ failure and death. Yet with early diagnosis, it can be treated with antibiotics.