FacebookA Scottish tourist has died in hospital nine days after an explosion destroyed his holiday accommodation in Rome.
Grant Paterson was visiting the Italian capital when the blast destroyed the B&B he was staying in the city’s Monteverde district.
The 54-year-old, from East Kilbride, was pulled from the rubble by fire fighters after the explosion on Sunday, March 23.
He was taken to Sant’Eugenio Hospital with injuries to his legs and third-degree burns to 75% of his body.
His condition was described as critical while more than £10,000 was donated to a fundraiser set up to support his daughter.
EBUMr Paterson worked for CalMac for more than a decade and was part of its catering crew on the MV Clansman ferry.
The company confirmed on Tuesday that Mr Paterson had died.
Diane Burke, CalMac’s chief operating officer, said the company was “distraught” over Mr Paterson’s death.
She said: “He was a true gentleman and a credit to MV Clansman, the vessel he served aboard.
“During a distinguished 12-year career with us, he embodied the very best of CalMac and, with his larger-than-life character, he was much-loved by colleagues and passengers alike.”
She added: “Our thoughts are with Grant’s friends and family at this extremely difficult time.”
Roberto Gualtieri, mayor of Rome, said initial findings suggest the explosion may have been caused by a gas leak.
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