TRIBUTES have poured in for an Irvine "legend" and retired local policeman following his passsing.

Jim Hutson passed away at his home in Irvine, on Saturday, March 18, aged 67.

He was well known in the local area both socially and from his work which saw him stationed at Saltcoats and Irvine before his retirement in 2005.

And there were few places where Jim was known better than his regular haunt - The Harbour Lights bar in Irvine.

The team from the popular pub were quick to pay tribute to the much loved man when they heard of his passing.

A social media post said: "Sadly, and with a heavy heart, we wish to advise all of our Harbour Lights family and friends we have lost one of our own. Our formidable, gracious and gregarious Jim Hutson.

"Jim, a retired police man, was a well known, and much loved friendly face at The Harbour Lights, and contributed to the fabric of our social scene for over 30 years.

"Your seat, with a Guinness or Jamieson waiting, not forgetting your loyal companion Johnny Boy, will always be there, for us all to fondly remember you.

"We wish we had more time together with you Jim, however we will all value and cherish the time we did have with you.

"Our thoughts are with your beloved family, we find great comfort in knowing you will be reunited with your dearly beloved wife Margaret.

"You will be sorely missed by so many. We lost a piece of our Harbour Lights heart, the day you left us.

"You always will be a part of our identity Jim, and your legacy will live on in The Harbour Lights."

Upon hearing the news, numerous others who had the pleasure of knowing Jim also looked to pay homage to him.

One friend commented: "Still can’t believe my big pal has gone. Sat with him for nearly 30 years in the Harbour Lights.

"Having to give each other a fiver if Rangers or Celtic won and be nice to each other that day. All the days out we went on. Fountain of knowledge and a great man all round."

While another added: "Words cannot express the loss I feel, he was such a good pal.

"I look out my window every day to see Jim and Johnny but then remember he is with his lovely Margaret now!

"For years Jim is the first person I saw in the mornings for our morning chat, it is very sad to know he won't be here with us all at Harbour Lights this fills me with great sadness!

"Farewell my friend till we meet again. Big Jim Hutson the legend, gone but never forgotten."

Jim's wife, Margaret passed away around two years ago and he is now survived by his sons, William and Paul.

Jim's funeral details will be circulated in due course by the Retired Police Officers Association Scotland, Ayrshire Branch (RPOAS Ayrshire Branch on Facebook).