Scottish lawyers pay tribute to silk found dead in Pakistan

A post mortem examination is scheduled for today before McBride’s body is flown home.

Fellow silk Derek Ogg QC, a member of Edinburgh’s Black Chmbers, described McBride asa “dazzling light” with “stardust” and a “rapier-like wit and a weakness to help the underdog”.

A spokesman for the Faculty of Advocates said: “We’re shocked by the untimely death of one of Scotland’s most prominent QCs.

“Our thoughts are naturally with his family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time.

“Paul was a valued member of the Faculty of Advocates for many years and his colleagues will be saddened by the news of his death at such an early age.”

McBride, who was called to the Scottish bar in 1988 and took silk in 2000, died while on a trip to Pakistan with Glasgow-based solicitor Aamer Anwar of Aamer Anwar & Company.

Anwar told Scotland’s Daily Record newspaper: “It feels like a big gaping hole has been left in the soul of Scotland.

“Whether people loved or hated Paul, nobody could deny that Paul was one of a kind, on every level - his spirit, intelligence and zest for life - he either drove you insane or made you want to love him.

“I can truly say I have never met anyone like him and will miss his counsel and sense of humour.”

McBride acted on a number of high-profile cases in Scotland. He represented Gail Sheridan, wife of former Scottish Socialist MSP Tommy Sheridan, in the couple’s perjury case, which related to the earlier Sheridan v News Group Newspapers litigation.

He also represented Anwar in a contempt of court hearing in 2008.

This week McBride, a fan of Celtic Football Club, had been due to give evidence in the trial of Neil McKenzie and Trevor Muirhead, who are accused of plotting to murder the QC, Celtic manager Neil Lennon and former MSP and Celtic fan Trish Godman.

The trial was adjourned as a mark of respect to the silk.