Mourners gather at Hawkhead Cemetery in Paisley to pay respects to punk rock legend

Shug O’Neill was laid to rest in a coffin shaped like a guitar case on Saturday when friends and family, with many dressed in their best punk rock gear, gathered to pay their respects.

The 58-year-old was famed for his involvement in the 1970s band Cock Sparrer and his time working as a lollipop man in Auchenback, Barrhead.

Most recently Shug was known for his successful bands The Guttersnipes and more recently The Snipes.

The colourful musician passed away at Paisley’s Royal Alexandra Hospital on February 19 after suffering breathing difficulties.

The rocker’s vibrant funeral was a fitting tribute to the impact he made on the punk rock world with guests encouraged to dress as they would do at one of his gigs.

Shug was a husband, son, brother, uncle, nephew and cousin with family and friends travelling far to say their farewells.

Shug’s wife Carla Corneli, who he married at a medieval punk themed wedding in 2011, was there to say a final farewell to her beloved husband.

Tributes continue to flood in online for the punk star from as far away as Canada and Australia, with many reminiscing about his legendary performances.

Jon Gibbs commented: “Before I met Hugh, I’d never even had a dream, in the years since I’ve had several.

“So long, Hugh, you had a big impact on my life. I’m proud to have known you.”

Gary Cantwell said: “You were a truly talented man and great friend and I have a lot of happy memories of you. You were like a punk dad to me. You’ll be forever in our hearts." and we shall always have your music for whenever we want to hear your voice.”

Cock Sparrer commented on their Facebook page saying: “We’re sad to hear the news that Shug O’Neill has passed away and although our paths haven’t crossed for a while, there’s no disputing the significant part that Shug played in the history of Cock Sparrer.”