THOUSANDS of people are expected to gather in Glasgow to remember refugees who have died trying to flee war and persecution.

Nearly 3000 people have said they are attending a candlelit vigil at 2.30pm in George Square next Saturday, September 12.

Images of three-year-old Aylan Kurdi, who drowned with his brother Galip, five, and mother Rhian, lying face down on a Turkish beach have shocked the world and prompted renewed calls for the UK to take in more refugees.

The Glasgow event is being organised by human rights activist Fuad Alakbarov.

He is urging people to stand in solidarity with refugees.

The event is also to encourage the UK to take more refugees.

Fuad said: "There is a Scotland that is represented by people of compassion and people of welcome and people who believe in the fundamental principles of human rights."