Heartbreaking final post of Airdrie man shared just one hour before fatal blaze burnt home to ground

Airdrie man John McGuigan shared a heartbreaking message online just one hour before a fatal fire at his home.

John, known as bulb, was reported missing after the inferno tore through his property in Ewart Drive in the North Lanarkshire town, in the early hours of Saturday.

Pals launched a frantic search for the popular 38-year-old, who had not been seen since the blaze, before detectives confirmed they had found a body within the collapsed building on Sunday.

Police Scotland have confirmed formal identification is still to take place, but devastated family and friends of John have posted hundreds of tributes to the 'legend' online. 

Just one hour before the fire was reported, John uploaded an emotive quote on his Facebook page.

John McGuigan shared the message on June 27 (Facebook)

It read: "Good people are like candles; they burn themselves up to give others light."

Many friends of John have left their heartbroken reactions to his death under the post.

One wrote: "Can't believe we'll never see that smile again, buddy.

"Absolutely heart-broken.

"You will be missed more than you'd ever have known.

"I hope you're at peace now, my friend."

Another added: "Still can't take it in.

"Always there to help and a complete gent.

"Rest in peace, John."

John McGuigan has not been since since the devastating blaze at his home early on Saturday morning. (Facebook)

A third wrote: What a gentleman you were John, always doing your best and willing to help everyone. God Bless."

Another said: "Absolutely devastated, you were one of life's real good guys.

"An absolute gem taken far too soon."

The house in Ewart Street, Airdrie, was badly damaged in the incident (Daily Record)

Neighbours raised the alarm after the blaze was spotted just after 3am on Saturday morning.

Eight occupants of nearby houses were evacuated as a precaution.

Officers from Police Scotland say there are not thought to be any suspicious circumstances around the blaze.

In the wake of the fire a Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: "We were alerted at 3.08am on Saturday, 27 June to reports of a dwelling fire.

"Operations control mobilised six appliances and a number of special resources to Ewart Drive in Airdrie.

"Firefighters extinguished the blaze.

"The building has suffered a partial collapse and SFRS remains on the scene."

You can contact the Samaritans by calling 116 123 or by visiting their website.