The International Skating Union has paid tribute after honorary member Donald Gilchrist died ©ISU

The International Skating Union (ISU) has paid tribute to Canadian honorary member Donald Gilchrist, who has died at the age of 95.

Described as a "champion" for figure skating and synchronised skating, Gilchrist was involved in the sport for more than six decades.

A former national pairs champion, he became a figure skating judge and was the first Canadian delegate to participate at the 1951 ISU Congress in Copenhagen.

From 1953 to 1980 he was part of the ISU Single and Pair Skating Technical Committee, firstly as a substitute member and then as a committee member between 1969 and 1971 and 1973 and 1980.

He was elected to the ISU Council in 1980 and held the position for 12 years before retirement.

Donald Gilchrist was part of skating for more than six decades ©Skate Canada
Donald Gilchrist was part of skating for more than six decades ©Skate Canada

His career saw him officiate at ISU World Figure Skating Championships in Canada in 1972, 1978, 1984 and 1990.

He is survived by his wife Christine and is a member of Skate Canada's Hall of Fame.

"The ISU pays tribute to Donald H. Gilchrist's devoted service to the ISU and figure skating and asks members to remember him with affection," an ISU statement said.

A Skate Canada statement said they were saying goodbye with a "heavy heart".

"He was a champion for figure skating and synchronised skating throughout his life," it said.