THE parents of tragic toddler Andrew Morton today joined Tommy Sheridan's campaign for a total ban on airguns.

Mum Sharon McMillan handed over a 10,000-strong petition to the Solidarity MSP in Glasgow.

Andrew, right, was just two-years-old when he died after being shot in the head with an airgun in the East End.

Now Mr Sheridan is trying to introduce legislation at Holyrood to outlaw the weapons, except in gun clubs or for pest control.

Ms McMillan was joined by Andrew's 19-year-old sister Cheryl, and his dad, Andy Morton, at a press conference at the MSP's constituency office.

Fire Brigades Union Scottish secretary Kenny Ross also pledged support to Mr Sheridan's proposals. Firefighters are regularly the targets of airgun attacks. Indeed two officers were being shot at during the Easterhouse incident when Andrew was killed in 2005.

Drug addict Mark Bonini, who was 27 at the time, was later sentenced to a minimum of 13 years for the murder.

Mr Sheridan said today: "The family of Andrew Morton know more than anyone the tragic consequences of misuse of these deadly weapons.

"Their courage and resolve to support the campaign is admired and welcomed.

"The support of the FBU is powerful and when added to the recent opinion poll showing massive support for a ban across Scotland amounts to an unassailable case."

Last month a survey for pollsters TNS System Three showed 82% of Scots backed a ban.

In Glasgow support was even higher, at 93%.

Mr Sheridan's proposals are out for public consultation until March 22.