TRIBUTES have been paid to a Lanarkshire boxing hero who has passed away.
Coatbridge community stalwart Rab Bannan became a local legend for his efforts over the decades to help youngsters from the town.
Rab helped to keep kids on the straight and narrow by the discipline instilled at The Barn boxing club.
Rab, who set three-time world champion Ricky Burns on the road to stardom, was recognised for his tireless work at the boxing club with the BBC Sport Unsung Hero award in 2015.
A statement shared by the Bannan Fitness Club on their Facebook page read: "It’s with great sadness I have to announce that Rab passed.
"He was a massive figure in the community and did so much for the young boys and girls of our community.
"Please say a prayer for the family at such a sad time."
Tributes poured in for Rab from across North Lanarkshire and beyond as hundreds paid tribute to the "Coatbridge legend".
Sad to hear of the passing of Rab Bannan Scotland and Boxing has lost a true legend of the sport !! Thoughts and prayers are with Rabs Family at this time !! RIP Rab God Bless 🙏🥊 pic.twitter.com/uxDuX3eq31
— Scott Harrison (@Iamscotharrison) July 30, 2020
Members from Glasgow City Boxing Club stated: "Rab was one of the most well known and respected faces of Scottish Boxing.
"A man who had such a positive impact on anyone who walked into the famous Barn ABC.
"He will be sadly missed by the entire boxing community."
Bellshill boxer Scott Harrison wrote: "Sad to hear of the passing of Rab Bannan. Scotland and Boxing has lost a true legend of the sport.
"Thoughts and prayers are with Rabs Family (sic) at this time. RIP Rab God Bless."
Motherwell player Tony Watt wrote: "Rest in Peace Rab Bannan.
"Huge statue should be made in his honour for the work he’s done in coatbridge. A true legend of the town."
Coatbridge football club Albion Rovers wrote: "Albion Rovers are saddened to learn of the passing of a Coatbridge legend Rab Bannan.
Just got word my oldest cousin Rab Bannan has passed away. A large number of local followers here who knew him & even trained with him in the boxing world so I just wanted to get the word out. He was a legend & a great Coatbridge guy. RIP to a fine man-https://t.co/VbGkwrY8ds
— Mark Millar (@mrmarkmillar) July 30, 2020
"He was such an inspiration to everyone especially those who had the opportunity to get taught the world of boxing off this tremendous man.
"Everyone at Albion Rovers pass on our condolences to Rab’s family and friends during this sad time."
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