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Perth and Kinross Council leader Ian Campbell has died suddenly, the local authority has confirmed.

Mr Campbell, who was 66, had been the Conservative councillor for Highland Perthshire since 2007.

Perth and Kinross provost Dennis Melloy described Mr Campbell as a "big man with a big heart who gave his all as leader of this council".

Mr Melloy said: "Today's news comes as a big shock. My heart goes out to Pam, his wife, and all his family."

Mr Campbell had led the council's Conservative group since 2016.

Fellow councillor Murray Lyle, speaking on behalf of the authority, said Mr Campbell was "a dedicated and passionate advocate for this area".

'Shock and sadness'

He said: "It is with the greatest shock and sadness that we have learned our friend and colleague Ian Campbell has died suddenly.

"His commitment to education, healthcare, and championing rural Perthshire was clear to everyone who met him.

"He was dedicated to his duties as a local councillor, attending each of the 11 community councils in Highland Perthshire. I was proud to work alongside him.

"The whole council sends its condolences to Ian's wife Pam, his daughters, and grandchildren at this very sad time."

A statement from Scottish Secretary David Mundell and Conservative MEP Ian Duncan said: "Councillor Ian Campbell was a larger than life character who will be missed by all who knew him, whatever their political allegiance.

"His sudden passing will leave a gulf in Perth City Chamber that will be all but impossible to fill.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Pam, his children and his grandchildren."