TRIBUTES have been paid to the "Big Scotsman" who made Wrexham his home.

William Thomson McFarlane, originally from Kilmarnock, lived a stone's throw from the Greyhound pub on Holt Road and was one of its beloved characters.

After finding out that the 61-year-old, who went by Thomson, passed away yesterday, the pub's landlord Darren Nixon-Davies posted a tribute on Facebook.

It reads: "It is with the heaviest of hearts that we, Darren and Beverley write this post.

"Our dear friend, neighbour and very loyal customer passed away this morning.

"We are both devastated and will miss the Big Scotsman beyond words."

The Leader:

The photo posted on The Greyhound's social media

Thomson was being treated at the Maelor Hospital for several weeks before being transferred to Liverpool.

Darren said he wasn't sure when Thomson came to Wrexham, but added that some of the pub regulars had known him for more than 20 years.

Thomson leaves a son Timo who lives in Finland.

Darren told the Leader: "The pub was his social outlet, we used to see him two or three times a week. So it's sad and he will be missed."

He added that some of the friends had been helping to get his house ready for him when he came out of hospital.

The pub's regulars added to the tributes to him, saying the Greyhound will not be the same without his banter.

John Cousins said: "RIP mate you'll be dearly missed by your friends, won't be the same all our banter at the bar, rest in peace big fella

Jane Leon said: "I was only talking about him yesterday! Its very very sad! Such a lovely person. RIP Thomson, you’ll be missed by lots of people."

Joanne Lindsay said: "RIP Thomson, what a lovely man he was, a great character, was a pleasure to serve him drinks."

Meryl Latham said: "Very sad news, a guy I have known for over 20 years, RIP Thomson."

Stuart Yarwood said: "RIP Thompson. Will miss the 'chats' at the bar!"

"Thoughts go out to friends and family."