TRIBUTES have been paid to Musselburgh stalwart Alan Hay, who has died at the age of 67.

Known affectionately as “Mr Musselburgh”, he served for many years on Musselburgh & Inveresk Community Council and is a former chairman of the Fisherrow Trust.

Irene Tait, chairperson of Musselburgh & Inveresk Community Council, said members were “saddened” to hear of his recent death.

“Alan was a member of the community council for many years, serving as both treasurer and vice-chairman,” she said.

“He was a man who served the town well because he cared so deeply about it and always went that extra mile to help others.

“Alan will be a great loss to all of us.

“Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time.”

Mr Hay, who was born in Fisherrow, was a former chairman of the Fisherrow Trust, which oversaw a former school on South Street being turned into a centre for community and local organisations.

He was also a former committee member of Eskmuthe Rowing Club, which brought coastal rowing to Musselburgh.

Mr Hay was the cousin of the late golf commentator Alex Hay, who was educated at Musselburgh Grammar School.

Councillor Stuart Currie, Musselburgh ward member, said: “I was saddened to learn of the passing of Alan Hay. Alan was a real community stalwart for Musselburgh and never missed an opportunity to make the case for improvements in our town.

“His contribution to the community council was enormous and I know he was well regarded by his colleagues.

“I extend my condolences to Alan’s family and many friends.”

Fellow Musselburgh councillor John Williamson said: “I was saddened to hear about Alan’s passing.

“I first knew Alan from his long involvement with Musselburgh & Inveresk Community Council.

“Alan was involved in so many matters to do with Musselburgh, always with the aim of improving the lives of its citizens. Alan was quite rightly referred to as ‘Mr Musselburgh’.

“He will be sorely missed by all who knew him personally and through all of his efforts for the town. My sympathies go to his loved ones.”