TWEEDBANK Thistle Junior Football Club are planning some big celebrations to mark the clubs 20 year anniversary.

TWEEDBANK Thistle Junior Football Club are planning some big celebrations to mark the clubs 20 year anniversary.

The club, which was formed in 1995, kicked off the celebration at the home of Scottish Championship club Hibs - where both the 2004 and 2005 teams were invited on to the pitch at Easter Road to sample the club’s match day experience at half time during the Queen of South game earlier this month.

Both teams played out seven-a-side matches versus Greystone Rovers from Dumfries.

Tweedbank Chairman David Moffat told the Border Telegraph: “Hibs totally went out their way for both clubs, giving us 50 free tickets each, taking both teams away before half-time to their own dressing rooms and then introducing them over the loud speakers out the tunnel on to the pitch before the matches.

“Both teams then went on to play entertaining games against strong opposition, putting earlier nerves aside to show skills and determination above their years.

“After the games both clubs took to the centre of the pitch and took applause from all four stands whichh boasted a 9,000 crowd.

“This was a great experience for the kids which I am sure they will cherish forever.” It is believed to be the first time two teams from outwith Edinburgh had been invited to take part in the juvenile programme.

A 70 seat bus packed with parents, grandparents, brothers and sisters left the Borders to support them. For many this was their first ever experience of an SPFL match.

“And David added: “Everyone had a fantastic day.” The club also plan further celebrations throughout the year with former Hearts and Celtic footballer John Colquhoun, a friend of one of the parents, has agreed to host a special Box Soccer coaching session, an new initiative of which he is a Director.

“With the possibility of Hearts also offering a football festival for the clubs younger teams to re address the balance from city rivals Hibs it’s sure to be a year to remember for all at the club,” David said.

“We are also looking to hold other events over the year.

“One idea is to have a football festival late summer and invite ex-players and coaches along to play and catch up. We are currently looking through the archives to find out who has all been involved with the club over the years.

“If anyone could help with this either past players or coaches stretching back to 2005 please contact us by calling 07974350373.”