Tributes paid to Mid Argyll councillor and Provost Dougie Philand

Douglas Trevor Philand, known to many as Dougie, served the Mid Argyll area as a local councillor for 19 years and latterly held the office of Provost of Argyll and Bute.

Working in local mental health services for almost four decades, Dougie became service manager for children’s and adolescent mental health services for Argyll and Bute before retiring. He championed the cause throughout his time on the council.

Depute Provost and fellow Mid Argyll councillor Jan Brown paid tribute to her beloved colleague in a statement released earlier today.

She said: “It is with such huge sadness that we learned of the passing of Councillor Dougie Philand. He has been part of the council for such a long time that it is very difficult to imagine it without him.

“Dougie served Argyll and Bute in a variety of roles as a councillor and did so with dedication and determination to deliver the best for his area. More than that, he did everything with a smile, warmth and kindness which were welcome in all circumstances.

“Even in dealing with prolonged illness, Dougie maintained his characteristic positivity, determined to fight on and to keep smiling.

“We will miss Dougie for his experience, insight and positive nature, and will remember him with thanks and gratitude for his years of dedication and hard work for Argyll and Bute.”