Malcolm Bruce, Liberal Democrat MP for Gordon, has paid tribute to Tarves resident Arthur Watson, MBE, who died on Saturday (14th January).
Commenting, Mr Bruce said:
"I have known Arthur Watson ever since I first became involved with the Liberal Democrats in the Gordon area. He was latterly the Honorary President of Gordon Liberal Democrats - a measure of the esteem in which he was held by local party members, as well as a small recognition of the considerable service he rendered over the years. I was privileged to have him propose me as the Liberal Democrat candidate for Gordon in 2010.
"The Liberal Democrats were merely one of many causes and organisations Arthur supported and gave his time to. A former district councillor for Tarves, he was also a founder member and a former chairman of Tarves Community Council. But there was barely an organisation in Tarves or wider Formartine that did not benefit from his attention at one time or another - from Tarves Church, to the British Legion, to Ellon Rotary Club, and others too numerous to mention.
"Arthur was fond of the saying "there is no real happiness in life, without some form of service." He certainly served his local area with dedication, and richly deserved the MBE he was awarded in 1997.
"Arthur Watson was a remarkable man, committed to his local community, which he served with distinction. My deepest sympathies go out to his wife, Chris, his daughter, June, his grandchildren, and all his many friends.
ENDS
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