Betty truly was one of a kind

Tributes have poured in for a former East Renfrewshire provost - described as “one of a kind” and a “determined champion” - after she sadly passed away.

- EMYLIE HOWIE

Labour councillor and past provost Betty Wood-Cunningham OBE died aged 79, it was confirmed.

She had served her constituents faithfully in Barrhead, Liboside and Uplawmoor for 26 years.

And her dedication to the area was recognised last year when she received a Lifetime Legend award at the Local Government Information Unit (LGIU) and CCLA annual councillor awards.

Books of condolence have been set up at the council offices in Barrhead Main Street and at Eastwood headquarters for members of the public to pay their respects.

Betty was first elected in 1999 and was provost of East Renfrewshire Council from 2003 to 2007.

She received an OBE from Her Majesty the Queen in the 2011 New Year's Honours List for services to East Renfrewshire and Malawi.

Betty had first travelled to the African country in 2007 and set up a charity - the Betty Cunningham International Trust - which built a health clinic and nursery schools.

Paying tribute, West Scotland Labour MSP Paul O'Kane described Betty as a “dear friend”.