Family praise great grandad

Tributes to County regular James

The family of a Rutherglen man who died suddenly have paid tribute to a“loving grandfather”.

James Friars lived almost his entire life in Bullionslaw Drive until he moved to Swansea with wife Jacqueline Friars seven years ago.

He died on Thursday, June 22, at the age of 64.

His stepson Marshall Hayes said: “He was a loving grandfather and a brilliant stepdad.

“He was well loved in the community down here in Swansea and up in Glasgow.

“James had many friends up in Rutherglen but not a lot of family.

“He was very well known in the County pub. I don’t know his friends but hopefully they will see this and get the message about what happened.”

A pupil at the old Gallowflat School, James worked as a paramedic.

He met Jacqueline 20 years ago while she was living in Glasgow and they moved to her native Wales to be nearer her grandchildren.

During their relationship he became a doting grandfather to three of Jacqueline’s grandchildren.

Marshall said: “He was amazing with them.

“James was interested in local transport memorabilia and World War II memorabilia.

“He was also into motorbikes. He loved them. He was very easy-going and popular.”

The family are waiting for James’ body to be released from a post mortem before a date is set for the funeral. Anyone looking to attend can call Marshall on 07551277361.