Tributes paid to shinty legend Donnie Martin as Skye Camanachd mourns 'immeasurable loss'

A shinty legend has been described as a “giant” of the sport after he was killed in a car crash on Skye.

Donnie Martin was named honorary chieftain of Skye Camanachd after serving the club for 50 years as a player and coach.

The 65-year-old was also groundsman at their Pairc nan Laoch home during his long tenure and took charge of Scotland’s national youth side at under-21 level.

Former clubmates mourned an “immeasurable loss” in a heartfelt statement confirming his passing amid a probe into the incident on the A87 near Portree on Thursday afternoon.

A spokesperson for Skye Camanachd added: “There is no one individual who has made a bigger contribution to Skye Camanachd over that last 50 years than Donnie.

“He was first and foremost a husband, father, papa and brother and our deepest sympathies go out to Alice, Scott and Kim as well as Alasdair, Joan, Mairi and Ann and the extended family. Donnie was also a great friend to many.

“We are devastated to learn of his passing and his loss to the club is simply immeasurable.”

The collision, involving a Volkswagen Caddy van with a trailer and a Vauxhall Corsa, happened shortly before 3pm.

Police Scotland initially confirmed a 65-year-old man had died at the scene while the drivers of the other vehicle had received treatment for minor injuries.

Officers have since launched an appeal for information and have asked anyone who may have witnessed the incident to come forward.

Sergeant Neil MacDonald, of North Road Policing, said: “At this time, our thoughts are with the deceased’s family and friends. We are continuing with enquiries to establish the full circumstances.

“We would urge anyone who may have witnessed the crash or have dash-cam footage that may help with our enquiries to get in touch.”

Anyone with any information should contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 1980 of Thursday, May 5.