THE memory of a much-loved East Renfrewshire dad will live on, thanks to a generous donation to a Barrhead men’s support group.

Alan Foulkes, 41, unexpectedly passed away last month following a short battle with suspected peritonitis, which is an infection of the inner lining of the stomach.

His devastated family, including wife Helen and sons Craig and Ross, aged 16 and 18, decided to honour him by launching a fundraising drive to support men’s mental health.

They asked mourners at Alan’s funeral to support a retiral donation for the Barrhead’s Men Shed, which provides a space for people to come together and share their love of DIY.

His parents, Ray and Gillian, hope the money donated will mean men who are feeling isolated will be able to get the support they need.

“Alan was always interested in doing things and we used to put up fences and the like,” said 74-year-old Ray. “We have a house in France and he helped us with it over the years.

“He would have really appreciated the work that goes on at the Men’s Shed. He loved his tools – my garage is still full of them.

“It was suggested to us that the Men’s Shed is a cause that would be close to Alan’s heart, so we wanted to support the local one.”

Ray popped along to the group’s Robertson Street hub to present a cheque for around £400 in memory of Alan, who was from Newton Mearns.

And bosses at the Men’s Shed have wasted little time in putting the money to good use, purchasing a new saw which will also feature a plaque inscribed with Alan’s name.

Ray added: “It is great what they are doing for men in the area. Hopefully, the donation will give people a chance to get the support they need.

“So many people turned out for Alan’s funeral. We also received messages from all over the world, as he met people while playing games online.

“It was all so touching.”

Men and women alike are welcome to go along to the Barrhead Men’s Shed, where they can share tools, gain a sense of achievement and enjoy some social interaction.

Robert Humphrey, secretary of the Barrhead Men’s Shed, said: “Donations like this help us to support people in the local community.”