THE First Minister has led tributes to former SNP deputy leader George Leslie.
Described as a “titan” of the independence movement, Leslie passed away aged 86, it was reported on Thursday.
Humza Yousaf was among the top figures from the party to pay respects to the former SNP stalwart.
He wrote: “My condolences to George Leslie's family and friends. A stalwart of @theSNP.
“The independence movement and @theSNP stand on the shoulders of giants.
“We owe so much to campaigners like George Leslie. Thanks to their efforts, we're now within touching distance of independence.”
Annabelle Ewing – whose mother Winnie was described by Leslie as “attractive, bright, intelligent and charismatic in a way that I wasn’t” in a quote included in The National’s coverage of his passing – also paid tribute.
“We in the SNP stand on the shoulders of giants, giants like George Leslie,” Ewing wrote.
“Without George’s total dedication and commitment to the independence of Scotland, we would not be where we are now – within touching distance. RIP George Leslie. ‘Till the roll is called up yonder…’”
And Glasgow Council leader Susan Aitken wrote: “George is quoted in this piece saying he wasn’t charismatic like Winnie. But he really was.
“A hilarious, larger-than-life presence and a force of nature. He’ll be much missed, especially at @theSNP National Conference when the singing starts.”
John Swinney, the former SNP leader and deputy first minister, also referenced Leslie’s singing voice.
George was a wonderful, charismatic and inspiring figure whose devotion to the cause of Scottish Independence shone through all of his adult life. It was magnificent to benefit from his optimistic and hopeful counsel. And to hear him sing. https://t.co/aza8HbliO1
— John Swinney (@JohnSwinney) June 15, 2023
He wrote: “George was a wonderful, charismatic and inspiring figure whose devotion to the cause of Scottish Independence shone through all of his adult life.
“It was magnificent to benefit from his optimistic and hopeful counsel. And to hear him sing.”
And MP Gavin Newlands also shared memories of Leslie. He said: “What a shame. In addition to his professional life as a vet and his vast array of SNP work, George was a real character.
“I well remember campaigning for him from the waiting room of his vet's practice in Shawlands!”
Leslie’s funeral will be held at Holmsford Bridge Crematorium, near Irvine, on Monday, June 26, at 3.30pm.
