Ex-footballer now aims to play more golf and bowls

A former football player who was once known as ‘Bridie’ to his team-mates, Jake Bowman still carries a love of sport in his heart.

As a 15-year-old Forfar lad, he was picked up as a youth prospect for St Johnstone, who were developing a talent pool under legendary manager and ex-player Willie Ormond.

Ormond would go on to lead the Scotland team to its best performance at a World Cup in 1974, although they were eliminated in the group stages on goal difference.

Mr Bowman signed on during a particularly successful period for the Saints.

“I signed for St Johnstone when I was 15 and Willie Ormond signed me,” he said.

“Willie Ormond was getting a really good name for being a football manager, and he was soon manager for

Scotland. “St Johnstone were a fantastic side at that time and it was tough to get a look in because they were so good.

“I never made it into the first team as they were that good.

“Once we were playing in Arbroath and everyone was shouting ‘get Bridie’ or ‘get into Bridie’ and it stuck for a while.”

Mr Bowman still attends Forfar Athletic games and enjoys Station Park hospitality days with his friends.

Asked whether he would use some of his windfall to go into football as more than a fan, he said it was “too early to say” whether he would consider it.

“It’s just been five days since this came home to me,” he said. “You never know, but I’ll have to let it sink in for a bit.”

Mr Bowman had gone to the pub with his winning ticket to watch the second half of the Old Firm game between Celtic and Rangers.

When asked whether he was supporting either side, he joked: “No comment.”

He said: “I enjoy watching football but I don’t support any particular team.

“I quite often go along to see my local side Forfar Athletic, so I’ll keep doing that.

“The win also means I’ll have plenty of time to play more golf and bowls. I’m a member of Canmore Bowling Club.”