Tributes to a ‘truly extraordinary’man

Tributes have been paid to former Perth man and footballer Harold Davis, who died this week at the age of 85.

Harold was known as a defensive stalwart for Rangers from 1956 until 1964, having signed from East Fife.

He was also known for his heroism on the battlefield.

Harold’s national service began in 1951. He signed up for the Black Watch and soon found himself fighting in the Korean War.

He suffered serious injuries after being shot twice by a machine gun. It was not just his football career that hung by a thread - Harold’s life was now at stake.

He spent 10 days in a Japanese hospital before he came back to the UK. Almost two years passed before Harold was finally out of hospital, a stint which involved rehabilitation in the Bridge of Earn Hospital.

He was advised to look for another career, but undeterred, Harold returned to the football field. He signed for Rangers in 1956 and went on to win four league titles, two League Cups and a Scottish Cup. He also played in the 1961 Cup Winners’ Cup final against Fiorentina.

He had a spell with Partick Thistle after his time at Ibrox, but returned to Govan as a coach under manager David White in the late 1960s, and later would manage Queen of the South and be assistant manager at Dundee.

Born in Cupar, Harold’s family moved to Perth when his parents’ started work in the pub trade.

After leaving football, he eventually settled in Gairloch in the Highlands. In 2010 he was inducted into the Rangers hall of fame.

A statement by Rangers this week said: “That he was even able to lead anything resembling a normal life following [his injuries] was remarkable, but to go on and have the footballing career he did was truly extraordinary, and speaks volumes for the sort of man Davis was.

“Everyone at Rangers passes on their sincere condolences to Harold’s family at this difficult time.”

East Fife also tweeted their condolences, saying: “Sad news about the passing of former player Harold Davis.”