Heartfelt tributes have been pouring in after the death of Ian Downie – AKA Nutz the Squirrel.
Hundreds of Kilmarnock fans have been sending messages of support to Ian's family after he passed away yesterday.
Ian was the mascot at Rugby Park for 19 years before hanging up the costume last year at 71.
He was a well-known face around the town and he was a huge part of the Kilmarnock FC family.
Ian was also a janitor at Kilmarnock Academy for a number of years and he became a published author earlier this year as his book 'Titanium' was released.
The club posted a tribute to Ian which read: "Everyone at the club was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of one of our own, Ian Downie.
"In his years of service as Nutz, he brightened up many match days at Rugby Park.
"Our condolences are with his family and friends at this tragic time."
Park School posted a touching tribute saying: "Park School are sad to hear of the death of Ian Downie.
"Every year Ian would come along as Nutz the Killie mascot to help Santa to open our Christmas Fair.
"Ian was also our school janitor when Park School was previously at Grassyards Road.
"A wonderful friend of the school. All of our thoughts are with Ian’s family and friends at this sad time."
Former Killie stars, including the likes of Dylan Kerr, Garry Hay and Ray Montgomerie, paid their own tributes.
