Ally Gourlay: a man who will be missed

Ally Gourlay – best known for his love for, and encyclopaedic knowledge of, Raith Rovers FC, has died after an inspirational battle against cancer (see report on page 6).

Courier sports reporter Neil Robertson offers an appreciation.

Prior to Raith Rovers’ Ramsdens Cup final with Rangers two years ago, the club held a press day at their Glenrothes training centre.

Representatives from every major newspaper in the country attended, and we all ‘filled our boots’ with preview stories from the manager and players.

Once it was all over, I headed out to the car park but had to stop to answer a call on my mobile from Rovers media officer Ally Gourlay.

As I was one of the local lads, he was keen that I should be given a little something extra as a thank you for The Courier’s regular coverage of the club.

He tipped me off that the manager of the Kirkcaldy Ramsdens branch was none other than Brian Cooper, who was the last Raith player to score a winner against Rangers in a competitive fixture.

The result was that I had an exclusive for my paper thanks to Ally’s kind thought and generosity, which was just typical of the man.

He was the archetypical unsung hero who inhabits many football clubs, and it is incredibly sad that he has now lost his long, brave battle with cancer.

After I had been told that Ally’s condition was terminal, I spoke with him about it the next chance I had at Stark’s Park.

He was incredibly upbeat and his attitude left me feeling humbled, especially when he told me he wouldn’t see Christmas of 2014.

The fact that he was still here this Christmas and beyond speaks volumes about his courage and inspirational will to live.

It was only in the last couple of weeks that Ally was no longer well enough to attend the regular press call at Glenrothes.

The news of his death was obviously expected but it is still very hard to believe that Ally is no longer with us, and I for one will miss him greatly.