TWO stalwarts of Gala Fairydean Rovers Community Trust have been recognised for their outstanding contribution over many years.

Garry Fraser and Graeme Mciver were awarded Lifetime Membership of Gala Fairydean Rovers FC for recognition of their work in the football community.

The ceremony took place in front of a packed board room at half time during the home game against the Spartans.

Graeme, unaware that he was also being recognised opened the proceedings and paid tribute to Garry’s service as a Gala Fairydean youth team player, first team coach, first team manager, Gala Rovers first team player, Gala Fairydean Rovers first team coach, chair of youth academy, youth coach, trustee of Community Trust and quality mark controller before presenting him with his certificate.

Garry said: “I never expected this but I was kind of wondering because I was sitting in the stand speaking to somebody and they said, ‘Are you coming down to the board room?’

"But thanks to the club, I really appreciate it.”

Rob Fairburn then paid tribute to Graeme’s hard work on behalf of the club and the local community before presenting him with his certificate.

Since 2007 Graeme has been secretary of Gala Fairydean Rovers, programme editor, in charge of achieving and retaining the SFA licence, secretary and chair of the GFR Community Trust and coach of the para /disability football team.

Rob said: “What Graeme does for this club with the disability squad in the cage merits this award on its own. But Graeme, as we all know, has been part of this club for donkey’s years and we are where we are now because of Graeme.”

Graeme said: “It was an honour to receive the award. Both the club and the Community Trust continue to try and use football as a way to improve the lives of people in our community and it has been a pleasure to be involved in such a worthwhile cause over the years.”

The club posted the following message on their Facebook page: “On behalf of all at Gala Fairydean Rovers your efforts and time spent developing and contributing to the club is very much appreciated.”