Tributes to former Radio Clyde and STV journalist Colin MacKay
The BBC announced the death of the political journalist, who has died ages 79
Tributes are rolling in for former Radio Clyde journalist Colin MacKay, who has died at the age of 79.
Mr MacKay worked for STV for nearly 20 years, before joining BBC Radio Scotland.
His career began in the 1960s with roles at Border TV and Grampian TV, after which he went on to become STV’s political editor in 1973.
During his long career he interviewed seven prime ministers, including Margaret Thatcher.
In a quote on the BBC’s website, head of news and current affairs at BBC Scotland, Gary Smith, described him as a “brilliant political journalist, wonderful colleague, and lovely man".
He added: "In the busy world of journalism he was - to the end - a pillar of the old-fashioned values of courtesy, humour and erudition.
"I know he will be much missed by those he worked with at the BBC and STV, by politicians from all parties across Scotland, and by the audiences of the many programmes he presented over the years."
"Brilliant political journalist, wonderful colleague, and lovely man."
The current political editor for STV news, Colin MacKay, who shares both the same name and former job title of Mr MacKay said on social media: “Very sad to hear of the death of Colin Mackay, former Political Editor at STV and formerly of Radio Clyde and BBC Scotland.
"He was a great broadcaster, interviewer and a lovely person."
Former SNP MP Alex Neil wrote: "This is very sad news. Colin was a really nice guy. He was so professional that nobody other than himself knew his political affiliation if he had one.
"Very very sorry to hear of his death. RIP Colin"
Former deputy first minister John Swinney said: "Such sad news. Colin was a magnificent broadcaster of the highest standards, accompanied by unfailing courtesy."
BBC Scotland was contacted for comment.