'They were lifelong Hearts fans'

The family of a mum and son who tragically died 24 hours apart have called for a minute's applause at the Hearts vs Hibs clash this weekend in Edinburgh.

Ryan McDowell, 38, from Dunfermline, passed away on Tuesday, October 6, leaving his family and friends heartbroken. His 64-year-old mum, Val McDowell, sadly died days later.

Ryan is believed to be a dad with a young son, and a joint funeral has been arranged for the pair. Now, Deborah Moir, Ryan's sister and Val's stepdaughter, is asking Heart of Midlothian supporters to join a minute's applause in the 38th minute during their Scottish League Cup Semi Final against Hibernian FC on Sunday, reports The Record.

Deborah is hoping the applause in the pair's memory will help raise awareness of men's mental health, something Ryan struggled with throughout his life. She also called for the NHS to make more help available for those who are struggling.

Deborah said on Facebook that Val died "from broken heart syndrome" shortly after her son passed away. She said: "I would love if we get could get a minute's applause in the 38th minute for them both at the Hearts v Hibs game or Sunday 1st November.

"They were lifelong Hearts fans and we as a family would love this and help raise awareness of the amount of young men who take their own lives due to mental health.

"The NHS needs to change its structure and make more support available. Some of the family will be in the crowd on Sunday. Please share this post far and wide... your help in getting the minute's applause would be greatly appreciated and hopefully we win."

Ryan played for Lochgelly United Sundays AFC and the club remembered him as a "big gentleman".

A spokesperson said: "Ryan wasn’t just a player at our club, he was a good pal to us all. The big man was an absolute big gentleman who got on with everyone, always laughing and joking with all the lads, not just on the park but also off the park."

Val worked at Abbeyview Day Centre, which provides professional support for elderly people, for over a decade. The centre said: "Throughout the years she gave so much of herself to the centre and the people we support.

"Val made a lasting impact on everyone she met — not only our staff and fellow volunteers, but also our members and their carers. Her kindness, warmth and dedication will be remembered and cherished by so many.

"She was truly a valued and much-loved member of our Abbeyview family, and her unexpected passing has left a great sadness in all our hearts. Val will be sorely missed, but she will never be forgotten."

A GoFundMe was set up after Ryan's passing which has so far raised more than £3,400.