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Talented teenage boxer and footballer Scott Martin, from The Bog area of Falkirk, sadly died at the start of 2021 leaving family and friends shocked and grief stricken.

Tributes began flooding in for Scott at the start of the week, including a lengthy and emotional online statement from Sam McLeod of Sparta Fitness and Boxing in Grangemouth where Scott used to train and fight.

He commented on how respectful Scott was and how he had “didn’t panic under pressure, but instead had a razor-like focus in the corner” and had the “heart of a lion and was as tough as nails”

Family, friends and the local community turn out in tribute to boxing star Scott Martin who sadly died on New Years Day

Mr McLeod added the gym was going to include Scott's name in the title for their stable of professional boxers.

A special tribute balloon release event in memory of the former St Mungo’s High School pupil was organised and took place in Victoria park last night – with the sheer numbers of people coming along taking Scott’s family by surprise.

Mum Samantha said: “Honestly it was nothing like I was expecting. I knew there would be some people coming along but I had no idea so many would be there.

“I just want to thank everyone for what they did, it was amazing. We took a lot of comfort from it, knowing everyone was there for him.”

The local community gather in Victoria Park in tribute to young boxer Scott Martin who tragically died on New Year's Day

An apprentice joiner who worked alongside his dad David, Scott was a top youth footballer who played for teams including Falkirk, Partick Thistle and Hearts.

Earlier this week tributes filled up social media for Scott.

Samantha said: “He was a lovely boy. Everyone who met him just loved him. He was one of a kind – an absolute superstar who accomplished so much in a short time.

“We were lucky to have him with us. We will all be eternally proud of our precious boy and grateful for the time we had him.”