Brian Sweenie: Tributes paid to Neilston groundsman
Tributes have been paid to the much-loved groundsman of Neilston FC following the news of his death.
Born and bred in the village, Brian Sweenie passed away peacefully at home on Monday, August 8.
As well as taking care of the ground, he served in various posts on the club's committee through the years. In doing so, he carried on the legacy of his father Jock Sweenie, who helped found the football team in 1945.
Mark Kirkland, who was the club secretary until recently, commented: "It is a sad loss for not only the football club, but Brian was my neighbour for years when I lived up in Neilston and a personal friend. We all looked up to him.
"He was up at the club almost every day. Tinkering about the park, cutting the grass, putting the goals up - that was Brian's life. He was just a great guy. He was also there every week at games home and away."
"He knew everybody from the village, told you all of the stories about the old players and (would say) remember this and remember that? It was great listening to him. His death is a massive loss to the community, to his wife Ruth and to his two boys Brian and Paul."
A minute's silence in honour of Brian was held before Neilston's win over Rossvale at Brig O'Lea at last weekend.