TRIBUTES have been paid by Nicola Sturgeon and Glasgow South MP Stewart McDonald after the death of long-serving SNP activist Willie Douglas.

An inveterate writer of letters to the press, Douglas was best-known for his campaigning during many elections on the south side of Glasgow where he lived.

The First Minister tweeted: “Devastated to hear the news that SNP stalwart Willie Douglas has died. Willie was a campaigning legend in Glasgow and beyond, totally committed to the independence cause and, above all, a wonderful human being loved by all. RIP, my friend.”

McDonald added: “Desperately sad to hear of the death of Willie Douglas. In his softly spoken way, he won us many friends. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. We owe him enormous thanks.”