Paul Ferris, the former Glasgow gangster who inspired the Bafta-winning film The Wee Man, has died aged 62 following a brief illness.
Ferris was taken to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow on Sunday and died on Tuesday. He first came to public attention in 1992 when he was acquitted at the High Court in Glasgow of the murder of Arthur Thompson jnr, son of crime boss Arthur Thompson snr, in what was then the longest trial in Scottish criminal history.
Later conviction and prison years
He later faced trial at the Old Bailey in London in 1998, where he was found guilty of conspiracy to sell or transfer prohibited weapons, dealing in firearms, and possessing explosives. He received a 10-year prison sentence, which was subsequently reduced to seven years.
While incarcerated, he wrote his first book, The Ferris Conspiracy, which was adapted into The Wee Man. The story was later turned into a Bafta-winning film featuring Line of Duty star Martin Compston as Ferris.
Life after release
Ferris consistently maintained that he turned over a new leaf after his release from prison in 2001, becoming a legitimate businessman with stakes in a security firm and a construction company. He also published five books detailing his former life of crime and experiences.
In a chat with the Daily Record in July, Ferris stated he had never been tempted to return to his old ways, even if he received an offer that 'he couldn't refuse'. He acknowledged that there were still sceptics who doubted his reformation.
He added: "I have either been an absolute criminal genius for the last 25 years or I have done nothing wrong. Take your pick."
Ferris also spoke of plans for two follow-up films to The Wee Man and how he intended to use the proceeds to settle a substantial tax bill.
Legacy and family
The Wee Man chronicled the story of Ferris's upbringing in the harsh Blackhill district of Glasgow during the 80s and 90s and how he became an enforcer for merciless crime boss Arthur Thompson snr. Ferris is father to five children and has stated that none of them are mixed up in criminal activity.
One family friend said: "This has come as a great shock to everyone who knew Paul over the years. No one was aware that he was unwell. Our heartfelt condolences go to Paul's family, friends and loved ones at this extremely difficult time."
