KIND-HEARTED and a friend to all who knew him, Alastair Forrow was a much-loved father and husband.

Tragically, the sporty 50-year-old East Renfrewshire man died earlier this year following a diagnosis of advanced melanoma.

Now, his widow Mags and daughters Erin, 10, and eight-year-old Rachel have decided to pay tribute to him by taking part in the Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice Light up a Life ceremony.

Alastair, from Giffnock, spent the last few days of his life in the Glasgow hospice.

“We are very grateful for the care he received,” said Mags. “Following weeks of bouncing between hospitals and the Beatson going to [Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice] was a relief, in a way, especially when we found out how sick he was.”

Everyone knew “Big Al” from the golf club – at 6ft 2ins, he was a recognisable figure and had been the pro golfer at Whitecraigs, in Newton Mearns, for 24 years.

To Erin and Rachel, he was the “best dad”, one who encouraged them to enjoy horse riding and gymnastics, who loved chocolate and who sometimes made them walk to school – even in the rain.

“Our dad was really good at sports,” said Erin. “We did the Great Scottish Run with him once and we moaned a lot on the way round, so he ended up carrying Rachel on his shoulders.

“The Butterfly project at the hospice helped me emotionally, so I could talk openly about my feelings.”

Rachel said: “Dad loved chocolate and he would have liked being here at the new hospice because it’s lovely.”

As they prepare to remember Alistair at the hospice’s Light Up a Life services this month, Mags and her daughters, as well as their friends and family, know they will never forget the loving husband, father, brother and friend who meant so much to them all.

Light Up A Life is a touching way to remember a loved one – and it helps to raise funds for the hospice.

It features services of festive songs and readings which this year take place at St Andrew’s Cathedral, in Glasgow, at 3.30pm on Sunday, December 16, and 7pm on Wednesday, December 19.

They give people the chance to remember friends and family members who have died. The concerts are free, with a suggested donation of £5 at the door.