Former Lord Lieutenant of the Stewartry dies at 76

The former Lord Lieutenant of the Stewartry, Sir Malcom Ross, has died at the age of 76.

He was a former Equerry to the Queen and Master of the Household to the Prince of Wales.

As Lord Lieutenant he was a popular figure at royal visits in the south of Scotland. He was a steady presence at events big and small whenever the Queen paid a royal visit to the area, Sir Malcolm Ross was by her side.

His relationship with her majesty extended beyond these trips to the south of Scotland - he worked for many years as her Equerry, a senior attendant at Buckingham palace, and as master of the household to Prince Charles. He was awarded an OBE in 1988.

Retiring as Lord Lieutenant last year upon reaching his 75th birthday, it was the final chapter of a long and decorated career.

Sir Malcom passed away from an acute illness, leaving behind his wife Susan and three children.

St John, where he was former Prior, said: "This news has come as a terrible shock to us all, especially as many of us saw Malcolm and honoured him at a Dining Out in London just a few weeks ago",

Professor Mark Compton, Lord Prior of St John, says. “Malcolm was our much loved Lord Prior for the three years leading up to St John Day this year. He provided strong and steady leadership to us all and enriched so many lives especially through the many visits to St John Establishments that he and his wife Susie undertook. He will be missed by so many people across the St John world.”

Finlay Carson MSP Tweeted: "More sad news for the Stewartry as the former Lord Lieutenant of the Stewartry passed away. He was a hugely popular character and will be greatly missed by many people. Our thoughts are with his wife Susan and family at this sad time."