Flags at civic buildings in Nairn will be flown at half-mast today as a tribute to a former town provost.
Ronnie Watson, who has died aged 90, was given the freedom of the seaside town in 2008 to mark his contribution to the community.
As well as a period as civic head of Nairn, Mr Watson was the town’s longest-serving justice of the peace and the Nairn and District Pipe Band’s president for more than 30 years.
The band performed a march along the High Street during the ceremony to confer the Freedom of Nairn.
The prestigious honour, which is rarely bestowed, was granted by Highland Council in recognition of his many years of service to the community of Nairn.
Mr Watson was 83 when he received it in 2008 – the same year he retired from running a greengrocer’s business in the town for 48 years.
He was first elected as a town councillor for Nairn in May 1953 and participated in the Moray and Nairn Joint County Council, becoming provost of the burgh in July 1973 and holding the title until 1975.
A large oil painting of Mr Watson and his son Allan was donated to the town’s museum.
Artist Jason Walker painted the life-size piece as a thank-you to the two men for the kindness they showed him after the death of his mother, Catherine.
Chairwoman of the local area committee, Councillor Liz MacDonald, who was Provost of Nairn in 2008 and took part in the freedom ceremony, said: “I have known Ronnie for many years and I was delighted when he was given the Freedom of Nairn a few years ago.
“Ronnie and his son Alan are represented in Nairn Museum in a terrific painting by Jason P Walker.
“It is with deep regret that I note his passing, he was a stalwart and ambassador for Nairn.”
Mr Watson’s funeral will take place at Nairn’s Old Parish Church today at 1.30pm and thereafter at Nairn Cemetery.
Family flowers only are requested, and any donations will go to the Scottish Poppy Appeal.
As a mark of respect and in recognition of being a recipient of the Freedom of Nairn, council convener Councillor Jimmy Gray has given his special permission for the flag on the council offices in the town to be lowered for the funeral.