Family pay tribute to 'gentle giant'

Brian Stirling suffered head injuries during an incident in King Street, Bathgate

The family of a man who died after an incident in a Bathgate street said he was a "thoughtful, kind, gentle giant".

Brian Stirling, 54, from Bathgate, suffered head injuries in King Street, Bathgate, at about 03:00 on Saturday. He died at St John's Hospital, Livingston.

Mariusz Winiarski, 35, has appeared in court charged with murder.

The Polish national is accused of killing Mr Stirling by punching him once in the head.

He made no plea or declaration when he appeared at Livingston Sheriff Court and was remanded in custody.

The HGV driver also faces charges of assault and breach of the peace.

Mr Stirling's family said: "We are struggling with the loss of Brian, our thoughtful, kind, gentle giant.

"We would like to thank everyone who has contacted us to show their support. This means so much to us and also shows that everyone knew what a wonderful person he was and always will be to us."