Staff at a weekly newspaper have expressed their shock and devastation after the sudden death of their managing director.

Craig MacInnes, MD of the Orkney Media Group since 2019, died aged just 45.

Colleagues said Craig, pictured, had “achieved great things” for the group and described him as “generous, thoughtful and insightful.”

This week’s edition of its flagship title The Orcadian was dedicated to his memory.

A tribute posted on its website read: “All at The Orcadian, Print Orkney and The Orcadian Bookshop are devastated to learn of the tragic and sudden passing of our managing director, Craig MacInnes.

“The news will come as a huge shock to all who knew and loved him, and our thoughts are firmly with Craig’s family at this incomprehensibly sad time.

“Craig was a generous, thoughtful and insightful man, who went above and beyond to look after his staff, and put their needs first.

“He worked hands on with every department, and at every level — no job was too big, or small. He was passionate about our business, and put his all into every task he faced.

“Craig led with an open door policy, and a diplomatic and fair approach. Nothing was ever too much to ask.

“He achieved great things for Orkney Media Group after joining us in 2019, and we considered him our friend first, and then our manager.

“He was a loving son, brother, husband and father, and was much loved by his friends and colleagues.

“Craig will be missed more than words can say, and our hearts are very much with his family.”

John McLellan, director of Newsbrands Scotlandsaid:  “Craig’s contribution to Newsbrands Scotland was immense, and for someone whose career did not start in news publishing his enthusiasm was refreshing and his passion for The Orcadian and the Orkney community unquestionable.

“We are all shocked and deeply saddened by his sudden death, and our thoughts are very much with his wife Shona and sons Rory and Ronnie.”