'Merkinch has lost a true champion' - Tributes are being paid from across the Highlands to a Merkinch shop keeper Trevor Nicol, from Inverness, who has passed away
TRIBUTES from across the Highlands have been paid to an Inverness shop keeper who has passed away.
Trevor Nicol, the popular proprietor of Nicols Shop at 57 Grant Street, Merkinch, passed away earlier this week.
Friend Billy Corbett said: "He was a Inverness legend, everyone knew Trevor, and he was a champion of the Merkinch.
"People went into Nicol's Corner Shop, on Grant Street, whether that be for boots or overalls for work, or my mother going in for net curtains, or whatever.
"Everybody was the same, and if anyone said they were looking or needing something, it was always, 'Nicol's will have it, go and see Trevor' and he was so accommodating to everyone, and such a nice and friendly guy, like his father who ran the shop before him.
"I personally knew him too, through my connections with Clachnacuddin Football Club, as quite often he would purchase an advertisement in our match programme or take an advertisement board for Nicols at our ground on Grant Street Park.
"He was just so helpful to everyone in the Merkinch community and beyond, and there's no doubt.
"Merkinch has lost a true champion. Thoughts with Susan and all of the family."
Community councillor Donna Hooper said Mr Nicol had a "smile for everyone who knew him.
"Merkinch community is shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of another long serving family member today, Trevor Nicol – from Nicol's corner shop sadly passed away leaving his wife Susan and family.
"Trevor will be missed by thousands who visited his shop."
A message on South Kessock and Merkinch community page said: "We are very shocked to learn that a very well known local business man Trevor Nicol has sadly passed away.
"Our thoughts and condolences goes out to his family on this very sad times."
Hundreds of messages have been posted online from people across the Highlands.