Sponsor is Heart sorry for Tynie slur

HIBS’ shirt sponsors Marathonbet have been forced to issue a grovelling apology after mocking Hearts’ new main stand with an image that contained an offensive word.

The online bookmaker shared pictures on their official Twitter account of how the police control room at the corner of the new main stand and the Gorgie stand blocks the view of the goal.

But Marathonbet failed to notice that one of the four pictures they used also contained a ‘derogatory’ word.

Hearts issued a statement condemning the Tweet, while Marathon bet deleted the post and offered an apology.

The Hearts statement read: “Heart of Midlothian Football Club is disappointed to see a partner of the game in Scotland attempt to ridicule the club based on misinformation and the use of potentially offensive and inappropriate language.

“This is perhaps indicative of yet another trend which sees those who gain so much from the game, attempt to demean it rather than support it.

“For the avoidance of doubt, modifications to our existing control room are scheduled to take place as has already been fully explained to our supporters.”

Commenting on their blunder, Marathonbet said: “We apologise for our recent post in relation to the new stand at Tynecastle.

“When sharing the existing images we didn’t identify that one of the photos contained a derogatory word. We sincerely apologise for any offence caused.”

In last month’s update regarding the new 7,000 seater main stand at Tynecastle, owner Ann Budge confirmed how the control room would be modified so that supporters’ view of the pitch would not be blocked.