Tributes pour in after death of 'gentleman' Ayrshire piper and Burns stalwart

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Tributes have been paid to a much-loved Ayrshire piper and Burns stalwart who has passed away.Jim Butler of Kilwinning – known as 'the Piper for all occasions' – died on Tuesday, March 8 at Ayrshire Hospice.Mr Butler, originally from Kilmarnock, was a well-kent face at weddings throughout the region where his piping skills were a highlight for many a bride and groom.He was also a much-respected member of Irvine Burns Club where he had served as president in 1993; was the club's appointed piper and was made an honorary member in 2011.Aside from his love of Burns and piping, Mr Butler was a former art teacher at St Andrew's Academy in Saltcoats.

His own work was exhibited in galleries and exhibitions, including the Harbour Arts Centre in Irvine.A host of online tributes were made following news of his passing.The Ayrshire Live app is available to download now.Get all the local news in your area – plus features, football news and the latest on the coronavirus crisis – at your fingertips 24/7.The free download features the latest breaking news and exclusive stories while you can customise your page with the sections that matter to you.The Ayrshire Live app is available to download now on iOS and Android.Wedding photographer Emma Sanderson described Mr Butler as an 'absolute gentleman', adding: "I very much looked forward to working alongside him at weddings as he always had the time for a blether and a catch up.

The piping world and the wedding industry has lost a legend."Former pupil Nicky Nellany added: "I'm greatly saddened to hear of the passing today of my favourite teacher and human being, Mr Jim Butler.