TRIBUTES have been paid to a stalwart of Greenock Sheriff Court after his sudden death.

Gordon Nicol, 68, passed away in hospital earlier this month after a short illness.

The former Greenock High School pupil was a well-known and popular figure in local legal circles, and faculty members today paid heartfelt tributes to him ahead of his funeral tomorrow.

Former colleague and close friend of 40 years Alasdair Hendry worked with Gordon during his stint as a solicitor with Blair and Bryden.

Alasdair said: "Gordon was a man of great integrity, honesty and kindness - and someone who never shied away from hard work.

"He had a wonderful way with people and was an extremely popular person.

"I knew him for many years and can honestly say in that time I don't think I once heard anyone utter a bad word about him.

"Gordon never seemed to suffer ill health so news of his passing came as a great shock to everyone.

"I'm lucky to say I could count him as a good friend as well as someone I had the pleasure of working with.

"He will be greatly missed by not only me, but all who knew him."

Mr Nicol worked at the court from many years before a short spell living in America.

He returned to take up a post with legal firm McCusker McElroy & Gallanagh, covering cases at both the sheriff courts in Paisley and Greenock.

Greenock solicitor Gerry Keenan worked with Gordon while serving his time as a trainee.

He said: "Gordon was someone who always took the time to try and help and mentor you, nothing was ever too much trouble for him.

"I was driving home when I heard the news that he had passed away and was deeply shocked.

"He was a superb lawyer, someone whose professionalism always shone through, but above that he was a thoroughly decent person.

"My first qualified position as a lawyer was as Gordon's legal assistant in 1990 and I could not have asked for a better mentor or a kinder colleague to work with.

"I was with him for five years and many of the lessons I learned from Gordon I carried forward to my own business."

Gerry added: "I was shocked at the news of his passing but also comforted by the memories of his kindness.

"The unanimous view of everyone at the court is that Gordon was a decent and kind man who will be sadly missed."

Gordon is survived by wife Morag and his two daughters Kirsty and Alison.

His memorial service will be held at Maryhill Crematorium tomorrow at 11.15am.