A FORMER councillor who was one of just six people to be made an honorary Freeman of East Renfrewshire has died.

Iain Drysdale, who represented the old Kirkhill ward from 1995 until he stood down from public life in 2007, passed away on July 16, aged 80.

He served on the former Strathclyde Regional Council and later became leader of East Renfrewshire’s Conservative group.

Mr Drysdale was made a Freeman in 2011, in recognition of his long and distinguished service to local government.

Others who have been handed that honour are former councillor Walter McCreadie, Holocaust survivor Marianne Grant, former Scotland football manager Alex McLeish, Scotland’s former chief medical officer Sir Harry Burns and Allan Steele, who was the first Provost of East Renfrewshire.

Councillor Jim Fletcher, who is the current Provost, described Mr Drysdale as a “dedicated public servant” who was “extremely well respected” as an elected member.

“He was a valued member of the council, leading the Conservative group for 12 years before standing down in 2007,” he added.

“Being made an honorary Freeman of East Renfrewshire highlights the impact and service he gave to his community over a long period of time.”

Mr Drysdale was chair of the council’s Audit Committee for eight years after it was established in 1999.

His enthusiasm for that role attracted admiration and led to the committee being described as “exemplary” by Audit Scotland.

Dad-of-one Mr Drysdale, who also enjoyed a successful career with housebuilders Mactaggart and Mickel, lived in Newton Mearns and is survived by his wife Elizabeth.

Eastwood MSP Jackson Carlaw said he would be remembered as a “highly diligent, engaged and sincere councillor.”

“He was unfailingly conscientious and, like a dog with a bone, would pursue an issue in which he believed or a cause about which he was convinced with a sustained focus, eventually winning many around in the process,” Mr Carlaw added.

“Supported by his wife Elizabeth, he was an outstanding example of a local man serving his community. I shall miss his advice, good humour and keen instinct.”