A much loved school teacher and former junior footballer has died in hospital after contracting coronavirus.

David McIlroy taught at St Matthew’s Academy in Saltcoats, St Michael’s in Kilwinning and in Kilwinning Academy.

Tributes from pupils, past and present, have flooded in for the beloved PE teacher, guidance counsellor and supply teacher.

David played for Kilbirnie Ladeside and Ardrossan Winton Rovers, he was hailed as a fantastic player.

Gordon Ronney, Kilbirnie Ladeside Club Secretary, said: “I was fortunate to have had Davie as my PE teacher and one of my Kilbirnie Ladeside heroes.

"Always had a smile on his face whenever you met him. He was a tremendous player, tricky and brave, his goal scoring exploits for our club was one of the reasons we were so successful in season 1976-77, scoring eight in our Scottish Cup run.

Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald: Winton Rovers 1974 (credit: ThreeTowners)Winton Rovers 1974 (credit: ThreeTowners)

“He served Ayrshire Junior Football exceptionally well and that is one of the main reasons he was so admired.

“A very sad day for his family and all who knew a great character of our game.”

St Matthew’s Academy said it was “a difficult day for all connected to [the] school community”.

David tested positive for COVID-19 in hospital and passed away yesterday, December 22, at the age of 69.

Former pupil Graeme Johnston said: "The one guy from my childhood about who I had nothing but good things to say was Davie McIlroy, my guidie teacher. Our class totally loved him from day one - he was an absolute gem.

"At that age, he was the first adult who had just acted like a fellow human being and a good pal to us, rather than an authority figure. He got to know your family through parents nights etc, so would ask after them, and if he bumped into you in the shops or at the football he would happily stand blethering to you all for ages. 

Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald: St Matthew's Academy staff team with David McIlroy holding the Man of the Match trophy (2019).St Matthew's Academy staff team with David McIlroy holding the Man of the Match trophy (2019).

"I've had occasion over the years to visit St Matthew's, as it's called now, with work - and probably 10 years or more after he was supposed to have retired, I always saw him in covering. I think given the chance he would probably still have been in there teaching and helping out at the age of 100; it's just what he was meant to do.

"In 5th year, I went through some stuff, and he was the trusted adult I went to for help when I was at my lowest. Doing the job I do now, I suppose he must have been a bit of an influence over me - I like to think the kids at my work will view me in the same way I viewed Mr McIlroy.

"I know from talking to lots of friends and family that loads of folk who went through school at the same time as me also turned to Davie for help when they needed it. 

"Really shocked and saddened to learn tonight of his passing from Covid. Rest in peace, sir."

Jim Marner said: “I have no words to describe how much Davie will be missed. Another big part of Ladeside 77 Cup Winning Team.

“A great friend and loved man. Thoughts are with the family at these sad times.”