Highland welcome for Saints-mad Stuart
Buddies fan invited to be VIP at Nairn game
A Buddie is taking part in a 360 mile round trip – just to say thanks to his new Highland football mates.
St Mirren fan Stuart McMillan, 55, was so taken aback by the hospitality during the club’s 9-0 thrashing of Nairn County, that he has been invited northwards as the Wee County’s guest of honour.
And Stuart from Paisley, a prison officer with 26 years experience, will be a VIP guest when Nairn play Huntly in a Highland League game on October 7.
He also has been invited to stay overnight after the Huntly game so he can catch the benefit game on behalf of stricken player Calum Riddell on October 8.
Calum, 28, was recently diagnosed with a malignant brain tumour and Nairn County is facing Riddell’s All Stars with all proceeds going to the player.
Stuart told how he is relishing the prospect of heading north after experiencing the warm Highland hospitality on his last trip.
He said: “On July 2, I drove up to watch Nairn County FC play host to St Mirren in a pre-season friendly.
“I was immediately taken with the people who were involved in running the match- day experience.
“The gate staff were friendly. The committee men were well presented and were genuinely glad to see us.
“The food was good and the ladies who served it were very friendly too.
“The park had an excellent surface and the ground was every bit as good as, if not better than, some SPFL grounds.
“At the end of the game, the same committee men shook our hands and thanked us for coming.”
He added that he tweeted out his gratitude to pals on social media following the match, which St Mirren won 9-0.
And he was amazed when club official Donald Graham got in touch and invited him back to watch Nairn County play Huntly in the Highland League.
Stuart added: “And I will be going back up wearing the official club strip in black and white colours as committee member Donald Graham sent me a jersey and a polo shirt free of charge.
“I am looking forward to my return trip to Station Park for their match against Huntly.
“And even though it involves a 360- mile round trip and an overnight stay, I am sure it will be worth it.
“Nairn County Director of Football Graeme MacLeod even contacted with advice as to where to stay overnight after the Huntly match, so I can attend the benefit game for Calum Riddell.”
The Buddie added: “It’s truly wonderful to have forged a connection to Nairn County FC, who will now become my third football team after St Mirren and Manchester United.”