TENS of thousands of people are expected to turn off their Christmas lights tonight (wed) as a mark of respect for the victims and families of the George Square tragedy.

A Facebook event page entitled "Switch off your Christmas tree lights" had last night attracted more than 37,000 sign ups, with thousands more expected to be added today.

The page encourages people to turn off their lights for two minutes at 9pm this evening and to reflect on the tragic events by holding a two-minute silence.

The page states: "As a mark of respect for all the victims and families of the Glasgow George Square Tragedy, I hope you will join me in switching off your own Christmas tree lights at 9pm on Christmas Eve, with a two minute silence also."

It adds: "Be thankful this festive season and take a moment to honour these lost lives at this very sad precious time."

Many who have signed up to the page have posted messages of condolence for the victims killed and injured in the incident and their friends and family.

One contributor, Margaret Mitchell wrote: "Such a tragedy for these poor people. While others celebrate, their grief will only be starting.

"Our prayers and thoughts are with all those who lost loved ones."

Another, Dan Craig, posted: "A fitting tribute. Please join and spare a moment of your time to think of those poor people and their families - a terrible tragedy at any time of year never mind Christmas."

Fi Pea also wrote: "Much love to all the families affected by this tragedy. Putting our lights out for two minutes is nothing compared to the lights that have gone out in their lives forever xx."

Michelle Lyon added: "With heartfelt sympathies to all the victims of the tragedy, I will be switching mine off. "

While Shona Turnbull posted: "Such an easy way to show respect."