Tributes are being paid to legendary TV and film star Alexander Morton, who has passed away at the age of 81. The beloved Scottish actor was best known for his portrayal of Golly Mackenzie in the BBC series Monarch of the Glen between 2000 and 2005. He was amongst the show's most enduring cast members, having featured in all seven series as the gamekeeper and ghillie. Yet his flourishing acting career predated the beloved Scottish drama — he had already made his mark playing the villainous Andy Semple in the Scottish soap Take the High Road.

Following the conclusion of that show, he went on to appear in Casualty, Thugger and Luther, alongside Idris Elba.

Alexander, also affectionately known as Sandy, was born in Glasgow in 1945 and trained at London's Central School of Speech and Drama during the 1960s. Heartfelt tributes have poured in for the cherished actor since news of his passing broke.

His former co-star Robert Carlyle, who appeared alongside him in the mini-series Looking After Jo‑Jo, described him as "one of the kindest men I ever knew".

He wrote: "So sad to hear of the passing of the great Sandy Morton. "Not only a brilliant actor, but one of the kindest men I ever knew. "Working with him through the years with Rain Dog Theatre Company was an education.

"His unique, naturalistic style was a thing of beauty. So real that you would forget he was even acting at all. I've never seen anyone do it better than Sandy. He taught me so much.. I owe him so much and he will forever be in my heart. RIP Alexander Morton."

One fan said on Facebook: "RIP, Golly, pure gentleman, great actor." Another added: "Remember him well. God bless."

Meanwhile, someone else said: "Loved his character in Monarch of the Glen. RIP Alexander. Thinking of all of the family."

Alexander leaves behind his two children and one stepchild, as well as his wife, Jane.