THE parents of tragic Ardrossan dad Sam Johnston have spoken exclusively to the Herald about their 'football daft and friendly son' who was murdered in Saltcoats in October last year.

Allan Johnston and Lynn Burns separated when Sam was just a baby but together they ensured he was well cared for.

This week, as his killers await sentence, Allan and Lynn spoke candidly about the good times with Sam and what he was like as a son, a brother - and a father to daughter Lily.

They also spoke about the tragic waste of a young life.

Mum Lynn said: “It seems to be so senseless and there isn’t any sentence that can make any difference to me.

“It makes no difference because my boy is not coming home.

"It’s an absolute waste.

"There are no winners in this.” For the full interview see this week's Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald.