TRIBUTES have been paid to a Linwood man who is the first paramedic in Scotland to die of Covid-19.

Robert Black passed away on Saturday after contracting the virus several weeks ago.

The 51-year-old medic was born in Elderslie and grew up in Linwood, where he attended Linwood High School.

He would later move to Campbeltown, in Kintyre, with his wife Catherine.

Linwood politicians are among those to offer their condolences to Robert’s family and friends.

Councillor Audrey Doig told The Gazette: "It is a sad loss to the community of Linwood to hear about Robert's passing.

"He was one of our heroes doing his duty on the NHS frontline and he paid the highest price. I send my sincere sympathy to his family and friends."

Councillor Jim Sheridan added: "All of our emergency workers are heroes and I feel heartfelt sorrow for Robert's family.

"This is another clear lesson that we need to treat our NHS workers with the utmost respect and make sure they get all the protective equipment they need."

The tragic news was shared on social media by the Kintyre Community Resilience Group, who described Robert as a much-loved musician, family man and “huge character” within the Campbeltown community.

A spokesperson said: “Robert fought a strong battle but sadly succumbed to this horrible virus.

“This is particularly devastating to hear when it is someone who was young, so well liked and highly thought of – someone who worked within our emergency services, fighting against this pandemic.

“Our thoughts are very much with Cath, Lorna, Andrew, his family, extensive friends and work colleagues at this extremely sad time.”

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