They were led by Rural Stirling Housing Association (RSHA) – an organisation he served with distinction for over 30 years.

David died peacefully in the Bellfield Unit at Stirling Royal Infirmary after a short illness.

David was on the Association’s board and played a pivotal role in setting up the Association along with several dedicated others.

Joining the Rural Housing Steering Group in 1989, David chaired the inaugural meeting of RSHA in 1990 and established a clear vision of achieving the provision of high-quality affordable housing in rural areas.

This was finally realised in his own village of Strathblane in 2016 when the first affordable homes for 40 years were built.

David retired from RSHA in 2018 and on the occasion of his retirement he received a long-service award from the Association.

At the time, the then chairperson Margaret Vass OBE said: “David has made an invaluable contribution to the development of rural social housing for over 30 years. His ambition of ensuring new homes were built, existing homes were renovated, and local people were involved, has positively benefited many people across our communities and his colourful and refreshing approach has made him a pleasure to work alongside.”

Commenting after learning of his passing, Margaret, who still serves on the board of the Association, added: “David was a tireless champion of community-based housing and knew full well of the importance and challenges of delivering it in rural communities.

“It goes without saying that had it not been for David and a group of enthusiastic others there would be no Rural Stirling Housing Association. We owe a great debt of gratitude to them for their vision in those early days.”

Fiona Boath, chair of RSHA, said: “Those of us who serve on the Board of Rural Stirling Housing Association know full well the effort and commitment displayed by David and others as they sought to set up a community-based housing association to serve the people of Stirlingshire. Undoubtedly, they blazed a trail with their enthusiasm and desire to make a difference.”

Donna Birrell, current chief executive of RSHA, said: “We send our sincere condolences to David’s family and remain hugely appreciative of his contribution to housing across Stirlingshire. His legacy can be found in the important work we do as a housing provider delivering affordable homes in the many communities we serve.”

At his retirement, David said: “In those days we were a group of people with little experience of the issues around the development and management of social housing but the common bond we had was our desire to ensure affordable homes were built in our communities that met the needs of local people across our large and socially diverse rural area. Initially, my ambition was for my own village and I’m delighted to be able to retire with this achievement now fulfilled.”

A popular figure locally, David was known for his engaging personality and ready wit. He was a member of Strathendrick Rotary Club and for many years ran his business Blanefield Taxis.

David is survived by his wife Mary and son Alastair.

His funeral will take place on Wednesday 11th November at 12.30 at Stirlingshire Crematorium, Falkirk Road, Bannockburn and afterwards at Meadowpark Hotel in Bridge of Allan.