A REMARKABLE comeback was completed on Saturday as Linton Hotspur officially opened its new clubrooms.

The village team went out of existence for almost four decades at the start of the 1970s.

But following growing support in 2008 a plan was hatched to revive the Hotspur.

Success quickly followed with victories in several local cups and the team have remained towards the top end of the Border Amateur leagues ever since.

Establishing a ground at New Moor Road has helped Linton Hotspur grow into a flourishing community club with around 100 players of all ages and abilities.

The final piece of the jigsaw was put into place on Saturday as Berwick Rangers arrived in West Linton to help officially open the new facilities.

Despite heavy showers throughout the afternoon, a healthy crowd still enjoyed the match and the accompanying entertainment.

Ivan Mackenzie from Linton Hotspur told us: "A massive thank you to everyone for making our opening day a huge success.

"What a great day for the club.

"The club has come a huge distance both on and off the field since our inception in 2008/09, largely thanks to the support of our local community and a hard working committee.

"The committee would like to thank all the assistance given in securing the land permanently, construction of the pavilion, financial donations and on going support from our sponsors - it really is enormously appreciated."

Despite a battling performance by Linton Hotspur it was the visitors who ran out comfortable winners.

The Shielfield Park side scored six goals without response during an entertaining 90 minutes.

Mr Mackenzie added: "We would also like to thank Berwick Rangers for participating in the game.

"For a senior club to recognise our cause and provide a team for the occasion is very much appreciated, and in particular, we would like to thank manager John Coughlin, and two of their board members, Doug Watkin and Ross Meins, for helping to make this happen.

"We hope that we have managed to create a facility that benefits the support shown to the club, and one that the community of West Linton can be proud of. "

A public vote was held to name the new facility at New Moor Road with Hotspur Sports Pavilion coming out on top.