Tributes have been paid to a former East Renfrewshire minister who has died after serving with distinction for more than 40 years.

Reverend Dr Laurence AB Whitley, who was 69, is remembered by many for giving voice to grief following two disasters – the helicopter crash at the Clutha pub and the George Square bin lorry tragedy.

After studying Divinity and serving his probationary year in Dundee, Dr Whitley was inducted to the linked charges of Busby West and Busy East in 1975.

He learned his trade during a 10-year tenure before moving to Montrose Old Church in 1985.

Very Rev Prof Sir Iain Torrance said: “He was the most gifted and inspirational user of language in worship and one of our most imaginative and creative and gentle ministers.”

Dr Whitley became minister of Glasgow Cathedral in 2007 and was also a police chaplain.

At the time of the tragedies at the Clutha and George Square, he was on the scene to offer support those affected. Later, he held services in the cathedral to bring people together and give a voice to the grief.

For his quiet pastorship, Glasgow Caledonian University awarded Dr Whitley an honorary degree in 2015.

Professor Pamela Gillies, the university’s principal, said: “Laurence was an exceptionally kind and supportive man, with a sparkling intellect and infinite capacity for empathy.

“He absolutely dedicated himself to serving others, whether in his parish or not and from all walks of life.

“It was a privilege to know Laurence and to be present to hear his uplifting and truly inspirational speech to our graduating students when he was created an Honorary Doctor of Letters of the university. He will be sorely missed.”

Dr Whitley is survived by his wife Catherine, children Edward and Hilary and siblings Michael, Elizabeth and Mary.