Tributes paid to SNP 'giant' Andrew Welsh

Tributes have been paid to the SNP veteran Andrew Welsh, who has died at the age of 77.

In a long political career, he served as the MP for South Angus between 1974–1979, and then for East Angus from 1987–1997, and Angus between 1997–2001. 

He was also one of the first members of the Scottish Parliament, representing Angus between 1999 and 2011.

Welsh joined the SNP in Glasgow in 1960, and was a councillor in Stirling from 1974 and then in Angus, where he was provost from 1984 to 1987.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon tweeted: “Very sad to hear of the passing of dear friend and colleague, Andrew Welsh, former [SNP] MP & MSP for Angus. Andrew was a campaigner for independence long before it had the levels of support enjoyed today. He will be hugely missed. Sending love to Sheena and the family.”

Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon posted: "So sorry to hear of the passing of Andrew Welsh, former Provost, MP and MSP for Angus. A life dedicated to public service and dedicated to the cause of independence, and you just couldn’t meet a nicer or more genuine person. Thoughts with his wife Sheena and family.”

Equalities minister Christina McKelvie added: “So sorry to hear of the passing of Andrew Welsh, sending love and condolences to his family and friends.”

Graeme Dey, now the MSP for Angus South, wrote that he was “deeply saddened” to learn of Welsh’s passing.

“Andrew was a giant of the SNP and the independence cause. Where he led here in Angus the party was to follow across Scotland,” he wrote.