Who is James McGeown? Glasgow homeless man who stood in pouring rain for hours to guard cash left in unlocked car
James John McGeown has become a web sensation after the owner of the motor posted the random act of kindness on social media
A HOMELESS man was praised on social media after standing in the pouring rain to guard cash left in an unlocked car until the owner returned.
Big-hearted James McGeown spotted John McMonagle’s motor parked in Glasgow with its passenger window down and a handbag in the front seat with £450 in full view.
What was James McGeown's act of kindness?
On December 13, he decided to stand guard beside the car outside the city's sheriff court for more than two hours in the pouring rain before checking the bag for ID in a bid to contact the driver.
Failing that, James lifted the bag and dropped it off at the reception of a nearby solicitor’s office and explained the situation.
The receptionist then phoned the police to notify them that cash had been handed in for safe-keeping.
When John, owner of McMonagle's Boat chippy, in Clydebank, returned to his car with his workmate Alyshia, he was shocked to find the police surrounding his car telling him the handbag was safe in the office.
Now, rough sleeper James has been praised by social media users after John posted about the random act of kindness on Facebook.
He wrote: “This man is homeless and alcohol dependant and an absolute GENTLEMAN.
"We were even having some banter on realising I follow the opposite Glasgow team from him. He said if I knew that I would have taken the bag.
“God Bless You James (please share what an amazing thing to do)."
What has been the response to James' act?
John has started a which has raised more than £17,000, far exceeding the £5,000 target, to help James and other homeless people in the Scottish city.
The GoFundMe post has already racked up thousands of likes and shares.
One social media user wrote: "What a good man. I hope he sees the good comments and receives permanent accommodation and help.
"Good luck James and all the best for the future. Xx."
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Another added: "Restores your faith in people.
"Doesn’t matter what he’s maybe done or hasn’t done people can change and deserve a 2nd chance.
"Well done for posting this to raise awareness."