THE Big Issue has paid tribute to one of its best-known sellers after he died in Glasgow at the weekend.

The magazine said it was "saddened" to confirm the death of Paul Kelly, who sold the publication in Glasgow City Centre and East Kilbride for 15 years.

Kelly was known for the catchphrase: "Don't be shy, give it a try. I don't bite."

The 50-year-old was found with serious injuries on Hermitage Avenue, Knightsbridge, on Saturday morning.

Emergency services attended, but Kelly died at the scene.

Police Scotland said a 46-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with the death.  

He is due before Glasgow Sheriff Court today, and a full report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal.

Big Issue editor Paul McNamee said: "We're devastated. He was such a sweet man. We talked a lot, many times a week, just putting the world to rights. He always had plenty to say. 

“His father died not so long ago and he had a bit of a tough time with that. But he met it and he liked to talk about him and reminisce.

“Paul was both tough and really gentle. He was such a part of The Big Issue, such a part of Glasgow city centre. He talked about the good people, the regular customers and friends he had who looked out for him. Everything is a bit darker and quieter just now.”

The Big Issue offers homeless people or individuals at risk of homelessness an opportunity to earn a legitimate outcome. 

Rhys Corley-Morgan, sales and operations manager for The Big Issue Scotland, said: "Everyone at The Big Issue is extremely shocked to hear about the death of Paul on Saturday morning.

"He will be missed by all of the staff who worked with him and all of his customers in Glasgow and East Kilbride.

"He was a kind-hearted person who was a friend to everyone he met.

“The thoughts of everyone at The Big Issue are with his family in the most difficult of times.”