A LEGENDARY journalist from Gourock who spent his career covering high profile court and crime stories across Scotland has passed away aged 77.

Charles Beaton, who worked for the Daily Record for over 40 years before retiring in 2002, passed away at Inverclyde Royal Hospital.

The much-loved dad to Kirk and Rory spent decades as the senior crime reporter for the title, covering stories such as the infamous Glasgow ice cream wars, the Lockerbie bombing and notorious Scottish gangster, Arthur Thompson.

Charlie, who married late wife Phyllis after meeting her at the Bay Hotel whilst on assignment for the paper in Inverclyde, was a prominent figure in the Scottish press scene for decades.

In a bid to keep his legacy alive, his family now plan on starting a fund in his honour to inspire and support young people from under-privileged backgrounds to pursue a career in journalism.

Eldest son Kirk, who lives in Hong Kong with wife May-Britt and children Maximillian and Ava, says the fund will be a way to continue his father's work helping new reporters to hone their craft.

The 46-year-old told the Tele: "My dad was always incredibly helpful to young reporters - he took so many people under his wing and helped them at the beginning of their careers.

"He started at the Record when he was in his teens and worked his way up, so he got to know everyone from police to criminals to gangsters over the years.

"We've been overwhelmed with comments from people working in the field saying how he was always there to offer a hand when needed.

"He was a really thoughtful and all round good man."

The adored father-in-law to May-Britt and Jackie, was the elder brother of Neil and sister Pat and late sister Aileen.

He was also a doting grandfather to Maximillian, Ava, James and Findlay.

As well as winning coveted awards during his varied career, the Gourock Golf Club member enjoyed travel - venturing everywhere from Dallas to his much-loved holiday destination, Millport.

Son Rory, who now lives in London, says his father had the ability to 'get a story from anyone'.

The 43-year-old said: "Our dad had such a great way of talking to people - everyone knew him and he knew everyone.

"We found out this week that in 1987 there was a siege near Ibrox and the individual involved said he would only give himself up to police if 'Charlie Beaton from the Record' paid him a visit.

"Everyone who knew him has their own stories to tell, it's been lovely celebrating his life by hearing everyone's memories."

After retiring, the keen golfer volunteered as a call handler with The Samaritans and enjoyed spending time with his much-loved grandchildren.

Tributes to Charles have flooded in, with many in the journalism industry saying he helped shape their careers.

Former colleague and author Anna Smith said: "Charlie was a top operator who charmed every company he ever graced.

"I recall being in awe of this big guy who had the looks and persona of a film star and the ability to get on the inside of the crime stories that are now part of Glasgow folklore."

Senior journalist Vivienne Aitken said: "He was a true legend and so kind to young reporters - I was in awe of him when I first met him, he was truly one of a kind."

Photographer Tony Nicoletti added: "I got a privileged seat to learn in real time from a giant of the journalistic world, he was a top operator of his generation who had a wealth of experience and heaps of style.

"He genuinely made you feel so valued."

Mr Beaton's funeral will be held today at Greenock Crematorium at 3pm, to which all friends are invited.