BILL Smith, founding member of the legendary Scottish folk group The Corries, has died.
The musician was best known for playing the guitar in the folk band for four years and was also a dedicated advocate for Scottish independence.
Smith reportedly died on Saturday, March 1.
He was described by fellow activists as a man who “led a vibrant and full life” before dedicating himself to the campaign for Scotland’s independence.
He was a “relentless” leafleteer and canvasser for Yes Haddington as the group said he was a “cherished member” of the Scottish independence community.
They added his “tireless efforts” in the run-up to the 2014 referendum were “instrumental in galvanizing” local support.
In a statement on social media, Yes Haddington said: “Campaigning alongside Bill was a joy and a privilege. He brought hope, optimism, and an incredible sense of humour to the campaign trail.
“One of the lasting memories from that time is the camaraderie enjoyed after a day of campaigning, retiring to a nearby pub for coffee or something stronger, and listening to Bill regale us with stories from his musical past and his years working in the Middle East.”
The statement added: “We lament that, like Alex Salmond and so many others, Bill Smith has not lived long enough to see Scotland’s sovereignty and independence restored, but like us, he knew that one day it would come.
“Bill Smith will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy as a passionate campaigner, a talented musician, and a beloved friend will live on in our hearts and minds.”
Alba’s Kenny MacAskill also paid tribute to Smith as he said: “Sad news indeed.
“As with many others Bill devoted his life to the cause of independence for Scotland - a huge loss for his loving family and friends.”
Smith was also a well-known musician and organised ceilidhs that helped to raise awareness for the independence cause.
He formed the legendary folk group, which would later go on to be renamed The Corries, in 1962 along with Roy Williamson and Ron Cruikshank and was described as a “significant figure” in the Edinburgh folk scene.
The trio of musicians played their first gig in the Waverley Bar on St Mary’s Street in Edinburgh the same year.
However, Cruikshank was forced to leave the band just weeks later due to glandular fever which led to the arrival of Ronnie Browne, so that the band could fulfil their scheduled Edinburgh Festival performances.
Irish singer Paddie Bell joined the trio soon after the group was formed, and the band was rebranded as the Corrie Folk Trio and Paddie Bell.
The group's popularity rose quickly amid the Scottish folk revival during the 60s and were booked to play on television soon after their festival appearances.
They were initially played on the Hoot’nanny Show and later on the BBC series The White Heather Club.
Smith recorded two albums with the Corrie Folk Trio and Paddie Bell, the self-titled debut record in 1964 and then The Promise of the Day in 1965.
But by 1966 both Bell and Smith had left the band, leaving multi-instrumentalist Williamson and vocalist Browne to continue as a duo.
The pair went on to rebrand the band to The Corries and later released their infamous Flower of Scotland as a single in 1974, although the band had been working on the song since 1967.
