And this week Provost Alex Hannah of East Dunbartonshire Council performed the dedication ceremony for the bench, the erection of which was set in motion by friends of the late Mastermind host.

The choice of the bench as a commemoration was in recognition of the fact that in the last year of his life Magnus, who lived on the outskirts of Milngavie, came in to the village every day with his wife Mamie to have coffee with friends and watch the world go by.

Long time friend of Magnus, Len Murray and Anne and Ronnie Letch who used to join Magnus at the coffee shop and whose New Foundland dogs he bought chocolate for on a regular basis, met with the Provost for the dedication of the bench.

Len said: "We would like to thank everyone who gave so generously to the fund. Our appeal raised £1,300 and we will be able to donate £200 to pancreatic cancer research."

Magnus' daughter Sally, also a broadcaster and author, told the Herald: "My mother and the rest of the family are very touched by the thoughtful decision to erect a perpetual memorial to my father and we think the choice of the bench in the village centre is perfect and thank everyone involved."

Len also extended thanks to East Dunbartonshire Council for all the help and co-operation received from the authority.

The friends had hoped to have the bench located at the wall in front of the river but work is ongoing there for improvements to the West Highland Way and the seat is located in front of the play area in the centre of the village.

Provost Hannah said: "I was delighted and honoured to help launch the appeal and to make one of the first donations from my own Charity Fund which is supported by council employees and local businesses.

"I'm pleased that the council has been able to work with Magnus' family and friends over recent months to get the bench installed.

"It is a fitting tribute to a man who cared about his community and contributed so much over so many years."