Firefighter who died in blaze 43 years ago remembered

A commemorative plaque has been unveiled to a firefighter who died in a blaze in the Highlands 43 years ago.

Roderick MacLeod, from Lewis, was among firefighters sent to a large fire at Aberchalder Lodge, near Invergarry, on 21 May 1981.

The 25-year-old died when a ceiling in the 19th Century guest house collapsed.

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has installed the plaque at Inverness Fire Station.

Mr MacLeod was married and had been a firefighter for about four years.

He had previously worked in the Merchant Navy.

His Inverness crew along with fire stations were sent to Aberchalder Lodge, about four miles from Invergarry.

The alarm was raised by a member of staff at the guest house.

The fire burned for about five hours until firefighters brought it under control.

FBU general secretary Matt Wrack said: “The Fire Brigades Union pays tribute to fallen firefighters through our Red Plaque project.

"It is our duty to remember those who have come before us, as part of the history of our fire and rescue service and our communities."

He added: “Firefighters everywhere honour Roderick MacLeod, and we will always remember his sacrifice.”

Seona Hart, FBU Scotland regional treasurer, said Mr MacLeod's bravery and service would not be forgotten.

She added: “The red plaque will stand at Inverness fire station as a place of remembrance and reflection for all.”

The memorial was unveiled in a ceremony on Friday.

The Red Plaque project was set up in 2017 and the first one was unveiled in November that year.