The man who murdered schoolgirl Paige Doherty has been granted leave to appeal his prison sentence by judges.

John Leathem killed the 15-year-old in a "savage and frenzied" attack at his sandwich shop in Clydebank, West Dunbartonshire, in March before he moved her body in bin bags to the boot of his car.

He then disposed of the popular teenager's body, which was left with more than 146 injuries as a result of Leathem's attack, in a wooded area next to busy Great Western Road.

At the High Court in Glasgow earlier this month, the 32-year-old was jailed for life and ordered to serve a minimum of 27 years by Lady Rae.

The judge described Paige as a "defenceless child" who was killed in a "savage and frenzied attack" and screams of "beast", "monster" and "rot in hell" were heard from Paige's family as the killer was led away.

She added Leathem had inflicted a "horrific level of violence" on the schoolgirl.

Leathem then lodged a notice of intention to appeal his sentence after he was jailed.

It has now been confirmed judges granted him leave to appeal and a hearing will take place next month.

Paige's family have now launched a #JusticeForPaige campaign in light of the news her murderer will have his appeal heard in court.

The campaign's Facebook page, which has gained more than 5000 likes, says: "On 12th of October 2016, Paige's killer pled guilty and was sentenced to life in prison to serve a minimum of 27 years before being eligible for parole.

"Today, Tuesday 15th of November 2016, it has been confirmed that Paige's killer has been accepted to have his appeal heard and this will be heard before the end of the year. We now have less than seven weeks to campaign for #JusticeForPaige

"There are absolutely no words to describe how Paige's family, friends and community feel."

It adds: "We know it is a busy time of year with the festive season. However we will all get other Christmas - Paige was sadly denied of this, and every other Christmas and Birthday there will ever be.

"We only have now to make a difference and for the next seven weeks we need all the help we can.

"Please change your profile picture to our #JusticeForPaige picture and get behind our campaign.

"We will be lining the streets, contacting papers, campaigning outside buildings - anything we can - with Paige's campaign and bring her the justice she deserves. If you can help in anyway at all, please get in touch."