A popular Big Issue seller who has become a staple of any trip to the Barrowland Ballroom has sadly passed away.
John, also known as Big Red, was known for his banter with crowds queuing to get into the venue in Glasgow's east end.
It's believed he sold the street newspaper for over two decades.
A friend announced on Facebook that he had sadly died on February 11.
He said: "A little sad information, Big Issue John (Big Red) that worked the queue with his terrible jokes and patter passed away on Friday.
"John wasn’t everyone’s cup of tea but I’ve known him for years and me and the lads shared more than a few pints way him down the Gallowgate."
Barrowlands regulars were quick to post tributes to the seller who would chat to crowds come wind, rain, or shine.
One person wrote: "Honestly I’m gutted.
"Me and my husband spoke about him all the time when we were heading down the road for gigs. He was a staple of going to gigs! So sad and really sorry for his family."
Another added: "Awww he was so polite and cheerful. That's sad. RIP"
One gig-goer said John was 'a legend' and was part of the experience' of going to the Barrowlands.
Another said: "Guy was a legend, loved his patter and got to know him over many years in the queue to many a gig. Sad loss."
A fifth commenter wrote: "Aw jeez….. that’s awful, crossed a few words over the years but only in good humour….. he was one of life’s characters."
A sixth person added: "So sad, such a nice guy. I've been going to the Barras for over 20 years and he has been there at every gig."
A seventh well-wisher shared had a very specific memory of John gatecrashing a wedding. He said: "He tried to gatecrash my mates wedding in the Old Fruitmarket, took him to the boozer across the road and put a score behind the bar for him. Only way we could get rid of him. God bless."
