A LONG-SERVING Irvine councillor who once showed the Queen around the town's Magnum Centre has died.

Matthew Brown, who has passed away aged 84, served as an SNP councillor and Provost of Cunninghame District Council.

He later returned to serve on North Ayrshire Council, and also set up the legal firm Matthew Brown Solicitors on the town's Eglinton Street.

The engineer and licence holder showed the Queen and Prince Philip around the Magnum Centre when the royal couple visited Irvine almost 45 years ago.

Son Simon Brown said: "He was a lot of fun and always entertaining. He lived life to the full.

"I was lucky to have him as a dad and to have worked with him for 10 years.

"I want to thank everyone and Abbeyfield, who took wonderful care of him."

Reflecting on the "splendid" royal visit on July 3, 1979, Provost Brown said: "I was really proud of Irvine.

"It really looked lovely and the people seemed very happy.

"The town had its best clothes on and enjoyed itself and the Queen shared that enjoyment.”

North Ayrshire Provost Anthea Dickson said: “I am really saddened about the news of Matthew’s passing – his loss will be mourned by politicians from across all sides and many, many others in North Ayrshire.

“He was a long serving councillor with huge experience when I was elected in 2008.

"He was a fantastic support to me and helped me so much when it came to dealing with the workings of the council and the wide-ranging and complex issues that crop up for councillors.

“He was quick of wit and very sharp in his observations and arguments, something that had given him such a successful career as a criminal lawyer.

“Outside of the council he was very sociable and inclusive in his hospitality, especially at Marymass. He was also a strong supporter of the Irvine Burns Club.

“We have missed his company in recent years, and my deepest condolences go to all his family and close friends.”