Scottish showbiz and panto star Christian dies at 80

Scottish singer and pantomime star Chris McClure, known by his stage name Christian, has died aged 80.

Born in Ibrox, Glasgow, the entertainer is said to have died peacefully on Monday at his home in Bishopbriggs.

His career spanned 60 years and included a tour with Billy Connolly, as well as a performance on Top of the Pops with the 1982 World Cup squad.

It comes just days after his final gig at Fauldhouse Miners Welfare Club in West Lothian on Saturday.

The Pavillion Theatre in Glasgow, where he performed for more than 50 years, paid tribute to a “true legend” of Scottish entertainment.

Jamie Gordon, theatre director, said: “Everybody is shocked and saddened to discover that Christian has passed away.

“More than the entertainer, he was a true gentleman. Rest easy Chris, you will be sorely missed, and our thoughts are with his family at this time.”

Ean Jones, who worked as Christian’s agent for two decades, described him as “an old school professional”.

Speaking to BBC News, he said: “The great thing about Chris is it’s all positive, there’s nothing negative about that man.

“He didn’t bow to the crowd or change his act to try and please – he loved Motown, and he’d say this is what you’re going to get.”

Having sung since he was a child, McClure joined local group The Fireflies which eventually became the Chris McClure Section.

The band was popular in the 1960s and were known for their vocal harmonies and affinity for Motown and soul.

In the 1970s Christian went solo, adopting his new stage name.

He performed on Top of the Pops in 1982 as part of Scotland’s World Cup song We Have a Dream.

According to Mr Jones, Christian’s favourite moment was headlining Glasgow’s Pavilion – where he continued performing into his late 70s.

Mr Jones said: “He always packed it out – he had real affinity there throughout his career.

“And after the performance he was always happy talking to members of the audience, and always made time for everyone.

“He was a man of great humility. One day he could be headlining a full production in front of 1,500 people, the next day he would be performing at a local care home for whatever they could afford.”

Mr Jones said Christian was a great joy to work with.

He added: “My thoughts go out to his wonderful family who I know loved him so much, and he loved them beyond all measure.”

Christian is survived by his wife Rainey and his children.