Tributes paid to lifelong Falkirk fan who died suddenly shortly after Celtic match on Sunday.

Tributes have been paid to a lifelong Bairn who died suddenly after falling ill while leaving the Falkirk Stadium on Sunday following the club’s Scottish Premiership match against Celtic.

The Falkirk fan, who has been named locally as Robert ‘Rab’ Govan, is understood to have collapsed when leaving the ground. He was taken to hospital, where he sadly passed away shortly after being taken there by ambulance.

A statement from the club published on Sunday evening led the tributes, saying: “Falkirk Football Club is aware that a lifelong supporter tragically passed away shortly after leaving today’s game.

“Everyone at Falkirk FC sends their heartfelt condolences to his family and friends at this most difficult time.”

On a social media group for the local Airth community, a message was shared on behalf of Rab’s wife, Rachel.

That message read: “I have been asked by Rachel Govan to inform our community of the sudden death of her husband Robert, or Rab as he was better known.

“He was at the football today watching Falkirk play Celtic when he took unwell at the end of the game and collapsed as he was leaving the stadium. He was taken to hospital by ambulance but unfortunately he passed away this afternoon.

“Our thoughts and condolences go out to Rachel, Chris and Rab's wider family and friends at this sad time. Further information will be publicised when known.”

A former Larbert High School pupil, the well-known lifelong Bairn was also heavily involved in harness racing, and his friend James Paterson - who also took part in trotting races - added: “Just had some devastating news that one of my best pals in the world Robert Govan has passed away today.

“Rab’s partner Rachel has asked me to let some of his trotting family know of his passing. Most of my best moments in trotting have been shared with him and he has always been there for me through the good times and the bad. I will truly miss you auld pal.”

Hundreds of football fans also shared tributes across social media, with many hoping to organise a minute’s applause at Tynecastle next Sunday in memory of Rab. Falkirk face Hearts that day in the Scottish Premiership in what is their next fixture.

One person commented: “Thoughts and prayers are with his family at this sad time, no fan should ever go to a game and not return home.”

Claire Sharples wrote: “Sending lots of love and condolences to their family. Rest in Peace, you left us on a day we shone, your light will equally continue to shine brightly over Falkirk Football Club.”

Another said: “Robert was such a lovely man. Sending condolences to his family.”

In the Airth community group, one person commented: “Terrible news. My thoughts go out to all Rab’s family and friends. Rab was a very familiar face around the village and will be sadly missed.”

John McGlynn’s Falkirk won 2-0 on Sunday against champions Celtic to make it four wins in a row in the top flight for the first time since 2008. First-half goals by Ethan Ross and Scott Tanser secured the three points.