TRIBUTES have poured in following the death of a former Dumbarton priest. 

The Archdiocese of Glasgow announced this afternoon that Monsignor Desmond Maguire has passed away at the age of 90.

Mgr Maguire was the former Parish priest of St Patrick's Church in the town's Strathleven Place. He had been retired since 2006. 

He was ordained in 1954 and served in five parishes during his 52 years in the priesthood.

Mgr Maguire also served in many roles in the Archdiocese and civic life. 

A statement posted to the Archdiocese of Glasgow's Facebook page read: "It is with great sorrow that we announce the death of Mgr Desmond Maguire, former Parish priest of St Patrick's Dumbarton. 

"He was 90-years-old and had been retired since 2006. Mgr Maguire was ordained in 1954 and served in five parishes during his long priestly life as well as serving in many roles in the Archdiocese and civic life. 

"Funeral arrangements for Mgr Maguire are as follows: Reception and vigil, St Patrick's Dumbarton, Tuesday, April 12 at 5pm, Requiem Mass, Wednesday, April 13 at 12.30pm."

More than 70 people paid tribute online. 

One person said: "Rest in peace Father Maguire. I met him years ago when I did some voluntary work with the Faith and Light Group at their retreat down in Langbank.

"I remember him being so welcoming and kind to everyone. Sending prayers and condolences to his family." 

Another added: "Sad news. He was a lovely, gentle man."

A third wrote: "Such a sad loss. Such a genuine, compassionate man. RIP."