The homeless man labelled a hero after standing guard in freezing weather over cash left in a car outside a Glasgow court for almost three hours has seen almost £5,000 raised for him.

The Evening Times reported on the amazing story of James John McGeown on Thursday, hours after he became a viral hit.

Clydebank business owner John McMonagle took to Facebook to tell the “breathtaking” tale of how James watched over a £450 sum of cash he left in his car while he was inside Glasgow Sheriff Court before raising the alarm.

READ MORE: Hero homeless man stands in freezing rain for hours to guard cash left in car at Glasgow court

Now, just 20 hours after the story captivated tens of thousands of social media users, John confirmed how he has set up a fundraising page for James and the wider homeless community across Glasgow and Clydebank.

John said: “The money will be entrusted to John to use. Also, the first £5,000 will go exclusively to James and, anything over that, I will take expert advice on.

“James will get a minimum of 10% with the rest going to the homeless community.”

READ MORE: 9 ways you can help the homeless and vulnerable in Glasgow this Christmas

In just 17 hours, £4,700 has been raised.

To donate to the cause, click here.

The Evening Times has reported previously on the homelessness crisis across the city and Scotland which charity Shelter described as a “crisis.”

In Scotland, official figures show 28,297 households were assessed as homeless last year and - at any one time - there were 10,873 households in temporary accommodation.

READ MORE: Glasgow urged to help homeless this winter as number of rough sleepers soars

Shelter also said an estimated 5,000 people sleep rough on Scotland’s streets throughout the year as the team launched an urgent appeal.

Alison Watson, deputy director of Shelter Scotland, said the number of homeless people is “shocking.”

To find out the nine ways you can help the homeless this Christmas, click here.