Shockwaves after sudden death of city councillor Alistair, 59
THE sudden death of long-serving city councillor Alistair Watson has sent shock waves through the City Chambers and beyond.
Earlier this week, councillors were mourning the loss of former deputy Lord Provost Gerry Leonard who stepped down from the city council in May.
And yesterday, they learned Mr Watson, 59, had died peacefully at his home.
The Labour councillor for Craigton was a towering figure in local politics who had served the Cardonald area for 22 years.
Before the local council election he was the former Labour administration’s business manager.
Mr Watson also served as convener of the land and environmental committee and was a former chairman of SPT.
He was a former train driver and was active in the Aslef union before being elected to the City Chambers.
Transport was one of his key issues and he was committed to the delivery of the Crossrail project linking Queen Street and Central stations and to an airport rail link.
Labour group leader Frank McAveety said: “The city has lost a major political figure who was a shrewd politician and a champion for the people of Cardonald.
“On a personal level, I have lost a loyal friend and the Labour Party and family have lost a crusader who was always fizzing with ideas.
“He got things done to improve the lives of the people across this city, especially the people in his ward.
“Alistair was an approachable, decent and compassionate man who made a real difference and was always willing to go the extra mile for people seeking his help and support.”
Council leader Susan Aitken described Mr Watson as a political animal who loved being part of the council.
She added: “I have known Alistair for 20 years and outside the debating chamber he was incredibly warm and gracious.”
Lord Provost Eva Bolander said: “Alistair was a towering figure, both physically and politically.
“An astute and seasoned politician, he had a significant and hugely influential role in local politics.”
Glasgow MSP) Anas Sarwar wrote on Facebook: “The Glasgow Labour family is in mourning. In the space of a few days we have lost two big figures and characters in our movement – former deputy Provost Gerry Leonard and councillor Alistair Watson.
“They were both amazing servants of Glasgow – a city they loved and were proud to call home.”
Scottish Labour leader Kezia Dugdale tweeted: “Very sad week for the Labour family losing not one but two giants of Glasgow Labour.”
Former Labour councillor George Redmond said he was devastated at the sudden loss of his friend.
He added: “The man was a giant in Cardonald and Glasgow and loved the fact he came from the area he represented.”
Former Lord Provost Liz Camer- on, who worked with Mr Watson for 22 years, said: “He was a big figure both in stature and in the Labour Party.
“He had a huge sense of humour and will be remembered for that as well.”
SPT chief executive Gordon Maclennan said: “Councillor Alistair Watson was a much respected representative of Cardonald for many years. He was proud to represent local people, working hard on their behalf to achieve change.
“Transport was a lifelong passion. He believed strongly that good public transport was essential to all and could make real change in people’s lives.”
Mr Watson is survived by his children Cheryl and Jordan, and grand-daughter Evie.