"It was his vision and enthusiasm that helped to found us": Tributes pour in for the chair of Pride Saltire who died last night

John Sinclair Johnston passed away at the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary on Monday night

John S Johnston was chair of Pride Saltire

Tributes are pouring in for the chair of Pride Saltire, and the director of community engagement for Edinburgh Pride, who passed away at the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary on Monday night.

John Johnston who lived in East Lothian has been described as a “shining light, a beacon for East Lothian who took that and shared that light over Edinburgh” by a colleague from Pride Saltire.

Former county MP Martin Whitfield said: “Sad news. My thoughts with his family, friends and all those that he knew. The memories of him will rightly live long.”

One Facebook comment said: “John’s heart was Pride Saltire, and Ben the black labrador who never left his side. Glad I got to know him and could call him a friend.”

Another said: “I was really shocked and deeply saddened to hear this yesterday. John gave so much to others and led in the establishment of Pride Saltire. He’s gone too too soon. Tragic. May he rest in peace.”

Pride Saltire added: “There simply aren’t enough words. Everyone at Pride Saltire is heartbroken by the news of the untimely loss of our chair, John S Johnston. It was his vision and enthusiasm that helped to found us. He was much loved and respected by all. We shall miss him immensely.”

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