NICOLA Sturgeon has paid tribute to former SNP councillor Clare McColl, who has sadly passed away.

Margaret Ferrier, the former SNP MP for Rutherglen & Hamilton West, tweeted on Saturday: "Terrible news that my dear friend and former colleague Clare McColl has passed away.

"Clare was larger than life, loved carrying out her role as Cambuslang West councillor, a real people person, respected and liked across the political divide, loved her party and a true nationalist, very sad day."

The First Minister shared the message, replying: "Clare will be greatly missed.

"She was a stalwart campaigner for her local community, the SNP and independence – and her warm, friendly smile was always a welcome sight."

Ms McColl is the mother of Cambuslang Rangers boss Paul McColl, who survived after being gunned down on a Cambuslang street on February 21 this year.

Read more: Cambuslang Rangers boss who was gunned down outside pub has returned to coaching duties

Police are still investigating the incident.