Paul Ferris, convicted at Old Bailey, dies aged 62

Paul Ferris, a former gangster and author convicted of arms trafficking offences at the Old Bailey in London in 1998, has died aged 62. His death followed a short illness, it is understood. His funeral took place on Monday at Daldowie Crematorium on the outskirts of Glasgow.

Life and Conviction

Ferris, who had previously been an associate of Arthur "The Godfather" Thompson Sr., was cleared of the 1991 murder of Arthur "Fat Boy" Thompson Jr. His conviction for arms trafficking offences came after a trial at the Old Bailey. It was during his subsequent prison sentence that Ferris co-authored his debut book, 'The Ferris Conspiracy', with Reg McKay. The book, published in 2001, served as the inspiration for the 2013 film 'The Wee Man', which starred Martin Compston.

Following the release of the film, Ferris described the experience as "very humbling" and an "emotional rollercoaster", adding that "the best way was to be up front and honest about it". He had reportedly turned his back on a life of crime after serving time.

Donations in Lieu of Flowers

The family of Paul Ferris has requested that mourners consider making a donation to The Invisibles, an independent group that supports homeless people in Glasgow, in lieu of flowers. This request was shared via the Naked City Facebook page. The family hopes that this gesture will turn a time of sadness into an opportunity to help others.