Former chairmen Matty Hall and Jim Gray, along with past player Norrie Brown, joined the club’s former manager Jim Jefferies for a wander down memory lane.

Approaching the mid 1980s the then Gala Fairydean had already been a successful East of Scotland team.

But a swift underhand move by Gray and Hall saw them land one of their greatest signings - Jim Jefferies.

The former Hearts player had cut his teeth in management with his hometown team of Lauder.

Hawick Royal Albert were on the verge of appointing the up-and-coming coach as their new man in the dugout.

But Gala’s officials intercepted him.

Gray said: “Jim was going to Hawick so we drove up to Edinburgh and talked him into coming to us instead.

“It led to one of the most successful seasons in our history.” For the next two seasons Jefferies led the Fairydean to countless titles and cups before heading to Berwick Rangers.

Hall, who was chairman throughout the Jefferies years, added: “Jim was a tremendous manager - we won almost everything under him.” The current Dunfermline Athletic boss was in a reflective mood as he returned to his former club.

And he was quick to praise the progress being made under the new name of Gala Fairydean Rovers.

Jefferies said: “There have been big changes - it is a great set up.

“Gala was always a good set up but they have upgraded well in recent years. They have a fantastic pitch and changing rooms now and there is a lot of enthusiasm.

“They have done really well and the people who put in the effort deserve the praise.”