THE political chamber in Kilncraigs united in sending good wishes to a councillor resigning amid tragic circumstances.

Last Thursday, January 31, saw a meeting of the Partnership and Performance Committee, which has previously been chaired by Councillor Phil Fairlie before he left his role last month.

SNP colleague Cllr Helen Lewis stepped in to lead the meeting in her capacity as vice-convener and sent condolences to the former representative.

Mr Fairlie cited the ill-health of his brother Andrew, the renowned chef behind Scotland's only two Michelin start restaurant at Gleneagles, as one of the main reasons for his decision to resign.

Sadly, Andrew passed away in January following a long-battle with a brain tumour.

Elected representatives in the chamber joined together to offer their condolences.

Cllr Lewis also thanked Phil Fairlie for the work he had done during his tenure following the May 2017 local government elections, when he was voted in as a representative for Clackmannanshire Central.

Labour leader Cllr Dave Clark described him as "an asset to the council" adding that "we will miss him".

Conservative leader Bill Mason said his group were "sad to see him leave" and sent his best wishes.

As he resigned, Mr Fairlie said: "It has been an honour and a privilege to have represented the people of Sauchie and Fishcross, and I am extremely grateful to have had that opportunity.

"I would like to thank the council leader and my colleagues within the administration for all their support and understanding throughout this period.

"I wish them every success as they seek to navigate some fairly difficult paths ahead given the extremely challenging finances of the council at present."