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Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
National
Cheryl McEvoy

Paisley fire: Heartbreak as three little coffins take children killed in blaze on final journey

Mourners wept openly as the funeral cortege for three children killed in a house fire made its way through the streets of Paisley today.

The heartbreaking scene unfolded as the tiny coffins bearing Fiona, Alexander James and Philip Gibson travelled to their final resting place.

Adults and children hugged and cried as the tragic procession passed St Catherine's Primary school where the two little brothers were pupils.

And the families wishes were respected with people wearing their brightest colours in memory of the 12, eight and five-year-old.

The siblings died after a devastating fire which broke out at their home in the town's Renfrew Road last month.

Their mum Julie Daley was seriously injured.

A rainbow floral tribute for little Fiona, Alexander James Gibson and Philip Gibson (PA)

The first of the three hearses carried a pink coffin while the other two carried blue ones, and the third hearse also had a decoration in the shape of a rainbow.

Head teacher Emma Henry previously said: "We are truly saddened by the loss of Alexander and Philip.

"They were both full of energy and such an important part of our school.

"Both boys loved the outdoors and frequently talked about their regular visits to the park.

"They never ceased to make us smile. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time."

After leaving the Gallowhill area, the cortege made its way to Hawkhead Cemetery.

Fiona was a pupil at Mary Russell School in Paisley, where head teacher Julie McCallum, said: "Words cannot express the sadness we are feeling.

The tragic scene this afternoon (PA)

"Fiona was a wee shining light in our Mary Russell family and to lose three young lives in this way is devastating for everyone.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and all affected by this tragedy at this very sad time."

An online fundraiser for Alex and Julie set up by friend Esther Chalk has toppled £29,000 as people from across Renfrewshire and beyond strive to support the couple.

The community pays its respects (PA)

A second Just Giving page, created by Julie's colleagues at the Royal Alexandra Hospital, has raised a further £5,000.

Police confirmed last week there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding the fire.

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