Tributes have been paid to a popular Ayrshire businessman Kevin Finnie following his death at the age of 55.

Kevin's body was discovered at a property in Prestwick on Thursday, and tributes have now flooded in from colleagues across the hospitality industry.

He enjoyed a long career in the hospitality trade, first founding the Treehouse Leisure Group in 1999, which ran The Treehouse in Ayr and Kilmarnock.

He also ran Life Night Club in Kilmarnock and Cafe Bonne in Prestwick. More recently, he ran The Buf in Ayr and Prestwick. 

A spokesperson for The Buf said: "We are deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of Kevin Finnie this morning.

"Kevin was a hugely popular figure in the local the community and will be greatly missed by family, friends and staff.

"We hope you can raise a glass tonight in his memory. Rest Easy Boss Man"

Fellow Ayrshire businesses also praised Mr Finnie, including Tempura, which has venues in Ayr, Prestwick, Troon and Kilmarnock. 

A spokesperson said: "Kev you will be sorely missed. Thanks for always being such a big supporter of our business from the very start.

"Our deepest sympathies go out to all of Kevin’s family, friends and colleagues."

The Red Lion Bar & Restaurant in Prestwick said: "Bit numb this morning. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Kevin’s family.

"He was a competitor but we always had a friendly chat anytime we bumped into each other."

Ayr's Venue38 added: "Very sad to hear the news of Kevin Finnie’s passing. Many a time we would pop into the BUF at Arthur Street round the back from us for a welcome pint when refurbishing the venue. Thoughts are with his family at this very difficult time."

Police confirmed that around 9.50am on Thursday, July 25, the body of a man was found within a property in the Midton Road area of Prestwick.

There are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances and a report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal.