The family of a popular lollipop man who died of Covid are celebrating his life by hosting a get-together in aid of a Barrhead charity.

Robert Fox’s son, two daughters and daughter-in-law have organised a Hallowe’en disco in memory of the born-and-bred Neilston man, who passed away on February 12, at the age of 73.

They decided to hold the party, which will be attended by around 100 people, as the fun-loving grandfather enjoyed getting dressed up for the occasion in years gone by.

With lockdown restrictions now lifted, the sold-out event at Crofthead Bowling Club, where Robert used to socialise, will allow those who knew and loved him to say a proper farewell.

The family are seeking donations for the party’s raffle, with the proceeds of this and their online fundraising page destined for the Include Me 2 Club (IM2C), which supports children, young people and adults with additional support needs and disabilities.

“My dad’s passing was right in the middle of Covid, so we could only have 20 at the chapel and there was only supposed to be 30 at the cemetery,” his son, also Robert, told the Barrhead News.

“We have now decided as a family to do something where people can get a chance to say their goodbyes, to reminisce and share stories.

“He was a great party guy. He loved singing and Hallowe’en. He loved getting dressed up and he used to put masks on for the kids coming trick or treating.

“It was just one of those things he enjoyed doing, having a laugh.

“Hopefully it is a success and we can do him proud. We want to raise as much as possible in honour of one of life’s genuine good guys.”

Following retirement from his role as a senior supervisor with East Renfrewshire Council’s cleansing department, Robert spent the last decade of his life helping children across the road near Neilston Primary and the Madras Family Centre.

He also brought great excitement to pupils through his special visits to the school and St Thomas’ Primary at Christmas time, dressed as Santa Claus.

“We picked IM2C due to it being local and also my dad’s great way with his kids, grandkids and great-grandkid,” added 50-year-old Robert.

“The charity provides a great service within the community for kids with a variety of disabilities, which I know makes a huge difference to their lives.”

A spokesperson for IM2C said: “We are so grateful to the family for selecting us to raise money for in memory of Robert. As a lollipop man, he was engrained in the community and all funds raised will go back to children in our community.

“It is a privilege to be linked with the memory of Robert in this way.”

To donate, visit gofund.me/6cfe0269. Anyone who would like to donate raffle prizes should send an email to editorial@barrheadnews.co.uk.