The man who was the original driving force behind the buyout of a former spy station on Lewis has died.
Martin Hayes of Aird Uig passed away on Monday.
He was the first chairperson of the Gallan Head Community Trust which successfully took on the Ministry of Defence for the right to buy the 80 acre RAF Aird Uig site on the Gallan Head peninsula.
The base was strategically important in the political climate of fear after World
War Two. During the Cold War, the station tracked the movement of Soviet ships and
aircraft, eavesdropping into their radio messages from the most north-
Plans are underway to establish a whale and star observatory on the land.
The Gallan Head Community Trust paid tribute to Mr Hayes.
A spokesperson said: “Martin was larger than life, and brightened every room he walked in to with his warm smile and jovial, positive presence.
“Martin made a huge impression on all those who were lucky enough to come in contact with him.
He was warm hearted, dignified, and kind; gentle but firm, strong, diligent and driven.
Martin -
“Martin worked tirelessly and tenaciously for the Trust, with great skill, focus and infectious, boundless enthusiasm, which spread to all he came in contact with.
“We can walk again on the beautiful Gallan Head largely thanks to the power of work done by Martin. Every time we do so, we will remember him gratefully.
“We are so lucky to have had Martin as a friend, neighbour and fellow board member. We will miss him dearly.
“Our thoughts are with everyone who knew and loved Martin, particularly with Elaine, Martin’s beloved wife, and his children, whom he adored.
Martin’s funeral service will take place at 2pm on Saturday at the Uig Community Centre.
Tribute to man behind spy station buyout
22 June 2017
