First minister Nicola Sturgeon MSP dropped by the Gorbals Riverside area to unveil a commemorative plaque honoring and celebrating the work of local man and New Gorbals Housing Association resident Joe Biggam.

Joe was a passionate member of the local tenants’ movement, an important member of the Riverside Estate Action Group and a well-known, liked and respected figure in the area.

The first minister said: “I’m delighted to unveil this plaque and pleased to see Joe Biggam getting the recognition he deserves. People like Joe are often the unsung heroes of their community so it’s great to see a lasting memorial to his selfless dedication.”

Along with fellow residents Nessie McGilp and Robert McCall, Joe was instrumental in establishing a solid community infrastructure which eventually led to the creation of the laundry room in Waddell Court. Joe voluntarily managed the daily running and general upkeep of the laundry room for the residents of all four of Riverside’s multi storey blocks. Without his efforts the laundry room would not be there today. It was often remarked that Joe was the 13th member of the concierge team.

Joe, along with his wife Kathleen and family, was one of the first residents to move into the Riverside multi storeys on their completion in the 1960s, where he remained until his passing in July 2015. Joe took an active role in welcoming new members to the Riverside community, and making them feel at home. He is missed by the community, but fondly remembered by all the people whose lives he touched over the years.