Tributes paid to former Aviemore Highland councillor and policeman
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Tributes have been paid to a former Highland councillor and 'local legend' of the Aviemore area who contributed in so many ways to life in the village.
Bob Severn had been a well-known policeman in the community before later serving as local member.
He was a passionate advocate for Aviemore and the wider Badenoch and Strathspey area at council headquarters after being elected in 1999.
Mr Severn won the vote for the SNP against Susan Paton (Independent), Gregor Rimell (Liberal Democrats) and George Gibson (Independent).
He narrowly lost his seat in the 2003 local government elections to Mr Rimell.
Mr Severn was someone who was always prepared to speak his mind as local councillor and also brought a ready-wit to the role.
Like most members of that era, constituency interests were always put ahead of party politics.
After leaving local government, Mr Severn and his wife Helen moved to live in Cyprus.
He also worked as a leisure manager at the former Red McGregor Hotel in the centre of Aviemore and also at Dalfaber Golf and Country Club after leaving Northern Constabulary.
Mr Severn supported many community groups during his long time in the strath including local football and as leader of the local Boys Brigade.
According to local social media, he had returned to Fife following the death of his wife and was living with his daughter. He had visited the strath in September.
Raymie Mackay posted on social media in Aviemore in pictures at the weekend: "Sad to hear the news today of the passing of another local legend.
"A huge part of shaping of our community and one of the last proper community policemen that cared.
"One of life's good guys."
Andrew John Stuart said: "Built and installed a sense of respect, pride and character into all who passed through the ranks of the 1St Aviemore Boys Brigade. Great start to adulthood for many of us. Cheers, Bob."
Toni Vastano said: "An absolute legend of a man who gave so much of himself to the community... Whenever we think of Bob I guarantee we will smile at the mention of his name. A real local hero."
Caroline Murray posted: "Bob was one of the nice guys. He was what a local bobby should be. He had the locals at heart. A true gentleman."
Rob Edmonds posted that Mr Severn had put many local youngsters on the right path: "Such sad news. He made a positive impact on so many people's lives. He have a huge amount of this time to the local community and could connect with the youth of Aviemore in particular."
Sandy MacDonell said: "A character with a big heart."
