Tributes paid to David Wood, doyen of solicitors at Kirkcaldy Sheriff Court

The third generation of his family to practice law in the Lang Toun, he passed away recently at the age of 83.

Until he retired due to ill health in 2000, Mr Wood was the doyen of the solicitors practising in the court.

He was appointed to be an Honorary Sheriff in 1990 and served with distinction as Dean of the local law faculty at a time when court procedures were undergoing numerous changes.

Mr. Wood was, from university age, active in SNP politics, standing for Kirkcaldy Burghs in the 1984 Westminster Election. For many years, he was treasurer of North East Fife Branch of the party

Away from work, Mr Wood was also a competent artist.

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For years, he was an art instructor and leader in the old Rose Street Boys Club, getting and giving much amusement on their annual camping exploits.

Always a sociable man, he played jazz trumpet and entertained his many friends to memorable parties at which he led his own band.

He played golf and tennis into advanced years and was treasurer at Falkland Tennis Club.

He took a leading role in the successful revival of Kirkcaldy (mens) hockey club which had not survived the war but he achieved most success as a batsman playing for Kirkcaldy Cricket Club. On at least one occasion he collected the bat awarded weekly by the Sunday Post for the fastest 50 runs scored in a league game.

He was also treasurer for Falkland War Memorial Committee, all the while finding time with his wife Morag to bring up their four children and to create and maintain the beautiful gardens at their happy home at Old Lathrisk which they opened to the public for charitable causes and where their friends were always made welcome.

His ashes will be buried in Falkland cemetery beside the grave of his great grandfather, Major William Wood, Black Watch, who was the last factor of the Falkland Estates before they were bought by the Crichton-Stuart family.