An editor who made his newspaper an “indispensable read” during his stewardship has died aged 94.

Tributes have been paid to David Watt, who ran the Ross-shire Journal from 1982 to 1991 and also served as its managing director.

David, pictured, continued to contribute reports from shinty matches and the Highland Games for the Journal after his retirement.

He also compiled the Reflections column, a nostalgia piece which he had started 44 years ago.

In an obituary, Hector McKenzie wrote: “David Watt will be remembered by many as a gentle giant whose passion, dedication and local knowledge ensured the county title was an indispensable read for the years it was under his stewardship as editor and managing director.”

Caberfeidh Shinty Club also hailed him as “a long-time supporter”.

The club said: “David’s match reports from Castle Leod for the Ross-shire Journal, which he edited, lifted often mundane games to another level.

“His description of the surroundings and the people involved were always a joy to read, being in his company and listening to his words of wisdom during a game was a pleasure and he will be missed greatly by all who knew him.”

David was married to wife Mary, with whom he had daughters Arlene and Fiona.

He died peacefully surrounded by his family on Christmas Eve and his funeral was held last Monday.