HE has travelled the globe supporting the Scottish National team but last week Gala Fairydean Rovers furthest flung Patron was back in Galashiels to visit their Netherdale ground for the first time in over 30 years.

Davy Provan lived in Galashiels as a youngster but is now based in Cyprus where he runs an Air Conditioning and Swimming Pool Maintenance Business.

The organiser of the Cyprus Tartan Army lives in Skarinou on the Mediterranean island and has attended an astonishing 59 Scotland away fixtures over the past three decades.

The former soldier with the 40th Regiment Royal Artillery has travelled the globe supporting the National team taking him to places as diverse as Japan, Armenia, Luxemburg, Serbia, Norway and Macedonia.

He returned to the Borders last week on holiday and met up with Club Secretary Graeme McIver with whom he attended his first Scotland away fixture in Cardiff in 1985.

Davy told the Border Telegraph: “It was lovely to come back to Netherdale after such a long time.

"Whilst the stand hasn’t changed much since I last visited here there have been tremendous changes both on and off the field.

"I was impressed with the new set up and what they are doing in the community, with coaching youngsters and running so many different teams in a rugby daft town. I am proud to be a supporter and patron of Gala Fairydean Rovers.”

The Patrons scheme was launched by the Fairydean Rovers at Christmas last year and other notable members include Calum Kerr, the MP for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk, Nil by Mouth Campaign Director Dave Scott, former Scotland International John Collins and ex Inverness boss John “Yogi” Hughes.

Club Chairman Kevin Temple said: “The club launched the scheme in order to assist us in continuing to grow and develop as a community club.

"The Patrons scheme is for individuals or businesses who want to feel part of our local football club and help make a real difference to what we are trying to achieve here at Netherdale.

"As well as assisting the club there are a wide range of benefits available for Patrons and for businesses who sign up to the scheme. We want to connect with more people in Galashiels and the Borders and this scheme offers us that opportunity.”

Anyone can become a Patron of Gala Fairydean Rovers for as little as £10 per annum for individuals or £50 for businesses by contacting Club Secretary Graeme McIver on 07738 615 562 or by emailing graememciver@btinternet.com