An illustrated book of a song penned by an East Kilbride pensioner more than 40 years has raised nearly £4000 for children's charity CHAS.
Harry Hagan, now 83, from Stewartfield, wrote a well-known Glasgow song called Sam the Skull - which was loved by all ages.
The story of Sam is centred around a cat who roams around Shettleston terrorising those he comes across.
And years after Harry, who was painter and decorator to trade but also played and wrote music, penned the song, it was brought back to life by Arran-based artist Jill Hargan.
A colourful illustrated book with the song lyrics went on sale in Waterstones in East Kilbride as well as Glasgow's Sauchiehall Street earlier this year with all proceeds going to CHAS.
They offer a full family support service for babies, children and young people with life-shortening conditions in Scotland.
Harry along with his family and illustrator, Jill, recently handed over a cheque to the charity for an amazing £3710.
He told Lanarkshire Live : "Jill and I were absolutely delighted present the charity with the cheque for the cash we raised.
"We exceeded out expectations and thank everyone who supported us and such a good cause through the book.
"I lived in the East End of Glasgow for many years in Sam’s home patch of Shettleston, before moving to East Kilbride.
"I’m very pleased that after all these years, Sam’s story continues in a fantastic book beautifully illustrated by Jill Hargan and that profits went to CHAS."
Sam the Skull was picked-up and recorded by Alastair McDonald for his album, Scottish Laughlines a few years after Harry penned it.
It has also been covered by the likes of the Scottish band Gaberlunzie and by the Folk group, The Wherries.
Illustrator Jill’s husband, Colin, even sang the song at the cheque presentation.
Harry's proud daughter, Carol Meldrum, added: "We were delighted the song was given a new lease of life and that is has raised funds for CHAS
"I worked in schools for many years and it was amazing how many children of all ages knew the words to the song as well as adults.
"Dad has always been very artistic and played the guitar and keyboard and wrote songs in his spare time - he's always been musical.
"The song has been recorded a few times, picked up by Scottish Folk bands but it was Jill, who is an incredibly talented artist that contacted us.
"She asked dad to pick a charity and it was always going to be a children's charity. Jill had to jump through hoops to get the book published and she had worked incredibly hard to get it printed.
"It's just great that after all this time dad's song has been introduced to a whole new generation of people."
CHAS Community Fundraiser Hayley Smith said: “We are so grateful to Harry and Jill for raising so much for CHAS and delighted that the Sam the Skull book has proved so popular.
"The funds raised will go towards helping us continue our work supporting children with life shortening conditions and their families across Scotland.”
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