FORMER Scottish football legend Tony Fitzpatrick has penned a book inspired by the death of his young son.

The former St Mirren captain's son Tony died from leukaemia more than 30 years ago.

Tony gave him the nickname Babakoochi and has now written a book called The Promise, Together Again which features a bear of the same name.

The book deals with issues such as grief, anger, hurt, life after death and even bullying in a simple, easy digestible way for children who find themselves facing similar situations.

Mr Fitzpatrick said: "After Tony died at the age of just six, I shut myself off emotionally and couldn't deal with what had happened.

"My daughter Lorraine was only nine and she needed to talk about what had happened as it obviously affected her really badly but I couldn't help and still really regret that.

"This book is my way of helping children now who may have lost a sibling, a parent or someone else close like a grandparent.

"The message is that death is not the end and that we can all find peace.

"It's very spiritual but I believe is suitable for all religions and I hope it can help to comfort youngsters who might be in a difficult place.

"Unfortunately we are all affected by the death of a loved one at some time in our lives.

"I want parents, for instance, to be able to use this book to start up a conversation with their children about someone the family has lost."

Tony, 58, who is from Glasgow, is hoping to find a publisher but has already paid to have 1000 copies of The Promise produced which aqre available from his website www.babkoochibear.com