Bankies have backed a grieving family’s plea for a town memorial to lives lost to the Covid-19 pandemic.

As reported by the Post last week, Patrick Rooney died at the age of 76 last year from the coronavirus leaving his family unable to properly mourn.

They called for a memorial for loved ones and the community’s sacrifices and resilience through the pandemic - and the public, and businesses, have backed the idea.

Tom Sheridan, boss of Clydebank Estate and Letting Agents, told the Post his firm would support and help fund a memorial to be erected.

Council leader Jonathan McColl said specific proposals would go to the council in due course to decide location, design and other factors.

In an online vote by 142 Post readers, 40 per cent (79) backed the memorial going Clydeside, which could include space near West College Scotland or along the new Queens Quay development.

Another 31 per cent (61 people) thought Three Queens Square would be the best location, and 22 per cent (43 people) felt Dalmuir Park was best. Six people agreed with Melford Park and seven votes thought another location would suit.

Read more: Clydebank grieving family of Patrick Rooney calls for town Covid memorial to unite the community

Patrick Rooney’s daughter Patricia said the family were delighted with the reaction so far.

She said: “It’s absolutely overwhelming the feedback we have had. People want this to happen.

“When people pass of Covid, family don’t get to see their loved ones or carry them to their resting place.

“The reaction shows Clydebank as a community does stand as one.”

Caroline Macdonald wrote on Facebook in reaction to the memorial idea: “Pat is so missed by everyone. A memorial is a great way to remember him and others. It’s so sad that families couldn’t get to be with them.”

And Erica Preen said: “Our family were the same. A memorial would be lovely in everyone’s memory who unfortunately lost their lives. Never forgotten Mum.”

Jamie Wotherspoon added: “Hope this happens a great idea, lost my mum in February.”

Council leader Jonathan McColl said: “The council agreed some months ago that a memorial should be created and I believe something for each of our three town centres would be appropriate. Proposals will be coming to a future council meeting and will ask the chief executive to ensure the council consults with our communities before councillors make any decisions.”