Singer Rod Stewart has donated cash to a fund set up in memory of a Rangers fan, originally from Northern Ireland, who died in a bus crash at the weekend.

Sir Rod, a Celtic supporter, contributed to the fundraising drive for Ryan Baird after getting in touch with former Rangers captain Richard Gough.

Mr Baird, 39, died after the supporters’ club bus he was travelling on crashed on the A76 near Kilmarnock on Saturday.

The fans – 18 of whom were also injured - had been travelling to see Rangers play Partick Thistle at Ibrox Stadium.

Richard Gough told the Evening Times: “As soon as it happened, Rod got in touch with me and said as soon as a fund was set up, I was to let him know. Which I did.

“He made a contribution, which is fantastic, which I have thanked him for. He is a good man.”

At sad times like this, we are one big football loving family. Rod Stewart, in his message to Richard Gough

Mr Baird, originally from Northern Ireland, had been living in Sanquhar, Dumfries and Galloway.

His cousin, Louise Evanne Baird, said he was “amazing” and that he would be “sadly missed”.

His partner, Sarah Hughes, also paid tribute to him, saying he had loved the club.

Former Rangers star Nacho Novo, who now plays for Glentoran, visited the fatal crash scene to lay flowers and other Rangers players have visited injured fans in hospital.

The supporters’ club said in a statement: “These visits have been valuable in helping our members, especially the youngsters, start to come to terms with what has happened.

“Rangers directors have been in touch with us and the family daily. The Nith Valley loyal and our community will never forget what they've done for us.”

Police have said inquiries into the crash continue.