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Tributes paid to Nando Vastano who so successfully made Badenoch and Strathspey his home





Mr V - the much-loved Nando Vastano.
Mr V - the much-loved Nando Vastano.

It is with deep sorrow that the Strathy reports the passing of a cherished member of the Aviemore community, Ferdinando (Nando) Vastano.

“Nando peacefully departed after a prolonged illness,” confirmed his son Toni.

In 1976, Mr Vastano and his wife and business partner, Joan, arrived in Aviemore to take over a dilapidated establishment known as The High Range Motel.

Over the subsequent five decades, through his exceptional leadership, business acumen, and relentless dedication, he transformed the motel into the longest-standing family-run business in the Aviemore area .

Born in Naples in 1943 during the war, he remained deeply connected to his heritage and family roots but held a profound love for his adopted homeland, Scotland.

In recognition of his efforts to represent Italy abroad, he was honoured with a knighthood by the Italian government in 2013 at a special ceremony in Edinburgh, symbolizing the bond between his two cherished countries.

Locally known as Mr V, Nando will be greatly missed by the community but will forever be remembered for his significant contributions to Aviemore, earning admiration from both the young and the old alike.

He is survived by his wife Joan, their four children, and eight grandchildren.

A private family service for Mr V will be held on January 20.


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