HUNDREDS of concerned residents in a Dumbarton community have signed a petition in protest of the possibility that axe murderer Thomas McCulloch will be re-homed there.

Worried householders in Silverton have expressed their anger that the man who has been in prison for the last 40 years could be roaming their streets soon.

We revealed last week that McCulloch, pictured, was scheduled for a parole hearing on Thursday which, if successful, would mean he could be released from prison immediately.

Since he is originally from Clydebank, West Dunbartonshire Council (WDC) is duty bound to find McCulloch a home in the area.

It is believed that one area which has been mooted is Crosslet Road, which is situated next to Dumbarton Academy, a park and a number of shops.

A worker in one of the shops said: "About a month ago a petition was started against McCulloch coming here.

"We put it out and most of the people who work here stay nearby and are concerned, so most people put their names down.

"We have filled about two sheets and everybody who comes in are saying they are worried.

"People don't want McCulloch living here next to a school - it's not necessary.

"About one hundred people have signed the petition so far.

"Nobody wants to speak out though because everyone is scared he might see the petition and come after us." Around 100 more people have also signed a further petition in another shop.