The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Memorial to be upgraded with club aid
Thousands of pounds have been raised to improve a memorial to five Markinch boys killed in the 1971 Ibrox Disaster – with Rangers themselves lending their support.
Locals want to improve the site and protect it from damage caused by people driving over the grass surrounding it.
The £10,000 project would see a wrought iron fence installed, along with granite chips and the addition of a bench.
The monument honours five schoolboys from the Fife town killed in the disaster – Ronald Paton, 14, Bryan Todd, 14, Mason Philip, 14, Douglas Morrison, 15, and Peter Easton, 13.
It acts as a focal point for locals to pay their respects each year on the anniversary of the fateful Old Firm game, which took place on January 2 1971.
Glenrothes resident Ronnie Bayne has launched the fundraiser to help pay for the planned improvements.
Support has poured in from Rangers supporters’ groups across Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Rangers midfielder Ryan Jack also shared a link to the fundraiser.
Ronnie said: “There has been damage at the memorial.
“The idea of a fence came up, but it wasn’t really getting anywhere, so we decided through the (Glenrothes Loyal Rangers Supporters’ Club) we’d do the fundraiser.
“We’re looking to raise in the ballpark of £10,000, but anything near that would be really good.”
The fundraiser has personal significance for Ronnie, who knew the five boys and attended the match himself.
A total of 66 people died and more than 200 were injured in a crush as supporters tried to leave the stadium.
Ronnie said: “I knew the boys personally. I had just turned 17. The bus from Glenrothes was full, so I went through to Ibrox in a car with some older ones.
We were back in Glenrothes when someone said there had been an accident at Ibrox, at that time they didn’t have radios in cars.”
Ronnie says it is important to remember those who died and ensure one of Britain’s worst football disasters is not forgotten.
“The effort has been supported by local councillors who represent Glenrothes North, Leslie and Markinch, as well as Fife Council and Markinch Community Council.”
A Rangers spokesman said: “The story of the five Markinch boys is one which continues to touch every Rangers supporter.
“Each of the 66 who passed away are always remembered, and the club are pleased to hear of this fantastic fundraising drive.
“Indeed, the club are delighted to be supporting a fundraising event early next year.”
The event in Glenrothes in March at the Ciswo bar will include an appearance from Rangers legend Graeme Souness.