TRIBUTES have been paid to a prominent Scottish feminist and equalities campaigner after she died suddenly on Friday.

Public figures praised the work of Emma Ritch, executive director of women’s rights organisation Engender, after the charity announced she had passed away. 

In a statement released on Monday, Engender confirmed it would close this week to allow staff to “collectively process the loss of our brilliant director, colleague, and friend.”

It added: “Over a career dedicated to realising women’s equality and rights, Emma has been hugely influential in the movement in Scotland, through both her paid work and in a number of voluntary roles.

“Her intelligence and insight, kindness and passionate feminism have made Scotland a better place for women, as well as enriching the lives of those who knew her personally.”

Rape Crisis Scotland, whose board Ms Ritch chaired, said she had made an extraordinary impact on the organisation and the feminist movement in Scotland. 

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the news was dreadful and devastating, describing the campaigner as a “force for good.”

For more on Emma Ritch, visit: engender.org.uk/rememberingemma.