ONE of Galashiels' greatest servants will be remembered this week.

Bill Lamb served as a local authority councillor for 35 years.

The 81-year-old father-of-two died at Borders General Hospital last week following a lengthy illness.

But he will leave behind a legacy of bettering the town of Galashiels that he called home.

The husband of Evelyn was not only a committed public servant but he also entertained readers of the Border Telegraph with his weekly column for more than two decades.

Former Border Telegraph editor Atholl Innes said: "Bill was a good friend to a lot of people and will be sorely missed.

"Few people will be able to say they remained popular after 30-odd years as a politician, but Bill could."

Bill was not only passionate about his town and the region where he lived, but he was also a strong supporter of funfairs and circuses.

Having been a correspondent for the World Fair magazine for more than 40 years, he was made an honorary member of the Showman's Guild.

But it is closer to home where Bill Lamb will be most missed.

Convenor of Scottish Borders Council David Parker said: “Bill was an elected member for over 30 years, representing a number of wards in the Galashiels area.

“Bill was a colourful character who was renowned for his brightly coloured ties and suits, and at the final Christmas council meeting before he retired he even wore a light-up jacket.

“He was passionate about funfairs and the circus and held a number of roles within the council, including chairing the planning committee and looking after licensing.

“On behalf of the council, I would like to pass on my condolences to his family and friends at this sad time.”

As well as serving as a ward councillor for Galashiels, Bill held several portfolio posts when the Liberal Democrats were in power at Newtown St Boswells.

Former council leader John Ross-Scott said: "Bill was a wonderful man who was well-liked by everyone."

Bill retired from local politics in 2007.

But he remained active over many issues surrounding his hometown.

Bill's daughter Susan said: "Dad's community spirit never dimmed, even during his retirement."

Bill will be remembered during a memorial service on Friday at the Trinity Church, Galashiels, from 12 noon before being laid to rest at Eastlands Cemetery.