THE long serving patron of the Largs Viking Festival has passed away at the age of 81.
Magnus Fladmark was an enthusiastic supporter and champion of the Norse celebration for over a decade and his impact on public life in Scotland dating back to the 1960s was far reaching.
Magnus had been able to attend this year's spectacle due to ill health.
He has left an outstanding legacy in public life in Scotland, playing a major role in shaping Scottish heritage initiatives and related government policy.
A statement from the Viking Festival Board said: "The Board of Largs Viking Festival is saddened by news of the death of our long-time Patron, Professor Magnus Fladmark. 
"Magnus has been ill for a number of years and survived a serious operation three years ago, after which he resumed his relationship with the festival.
"Magnus was a lovely man and he loved Largs. He always provided great support for the Viking Festival, through his personal enthusiasm and through his academic and international contacts.
"We will always be grateful for the part Magnus played in making Largs Viking Festival one of the biggest attractions in the Scottish summer calendar.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with Caroline and his family at this time."