Proud day for my boys and I feel welcome back in the Hibs fold

It was a very special thrill last Saturday to attend what turned out to be Hibs’ promotion party against Queen of the South.

My two boys, Jackson and Carson, were mascots. My mate had tried to “do the math” and calculate when it would be a potential title-winning party. At one point it did not seem likely but lady luck shone on us and my sons were there on the pitch on the big day. They were delighted. Having grown up a Hibs fan and never been a mascot myself, it was a proud moment.

I was at a St Patrick’s branch Q&A event at the Hibs Supporters’ Association club last week where they gave me lifetime membership and a lovely plaque for being part of last year’s Scottish Cup win. My friend and I went there again before the game on Saturday for a couple of pints. We were there as fans and to see our sons on the pitch later as mascots. It was nice to go just as a supporter – mostly I am doing media work or doing hospitality.

It all feels as though I have been accepted back in the fold. I was a small part of winning the cup and played for Hibs for free at one point. Everyone knows I grew up a fan. There are still some fickle ones in the support. But the majority have accepted me again. It is humbling. It is nice to be appreciated. I have always been well received by Rangers fans. It was never quite the same from all the Hibs fans.

Now I’d like to think the interview that haunted me for so many years about crawling across cut glass to sign for Rangers has been rectified. I’m glad because the future is bright at Hibs and now my sons want to go every week!