HUNDREDS of people gathered to pay tribute and celebrate the very full life of one of Linlithgow's hardest working volunteers and former Provincial Grand Master Ken Lindsay.

Mr Lindsay, 63, died earlier this month after a long illness, and St Michael's Church in Linlithgow was filled as family, friends, colleagues and representatives of the dozens of organisations he had been involved with over the years, gathered to remember him.

Most recognisable in the town from his stint as Provost of the Deacons Court, from 2006 to 2008, Ken had been a volunteer with the organisation behind the marches for more than three decades, and its treasurer for 30 years.

His three years in the top role, a hugely demanding time, coincided with him taking on the prestigious post as provincial grand master for Linlithgowshire of the Masonic Lodge, another very absorbing task. He ran both roles seemlessly.

Under his stewardship the 19 local Masonic lodges helped raise thousands of pounds charities, notably for CHAS and prostate cancer, among others.

An accountant by profession, his skill with numbers saw him helping out dozens of local groups as efficient auditor. His natural leaning to good works included time in the Round Table and as a Rotarian.

Originally from Glasgow, Ken moved to Linlithgow with his wife Sandra in 1972, and their three daughters, Kirsten, Fiona and Alison, soon followed and he thoroughly enjoyed his family, and their time spent together.

Norman Cummings, current Provost of the Deacons Court, said: "We were very saddened by his death. Ken was the treasurer for 30 years, and I would say that he was one of the reasons why the Deacons Court was so successful, due to his commitment and hard work.

"It was a privilege to follow him as Provost. We're going to miss him."

Alistair Rennie, past master of Lodge Ancient Brazen, said: "Because he was an accountant he was actually very precise with things - he was a safe pair of hands.

"To say we are going to miss him is an understatement. He was a big man in so many ways, and he will leave a big gap."

Jack Bobin, president of Linlithgow and Bo'ness Rotary, of which Ken was a member, paid tribute and said: "Ken was a member for about 15 years and a treasurer for half of that time. He was a very well liked and respected member of the Rotary."