Football: John Collins becomes Gala Fairydean Rovers’ first patron

Current Assistant Manager at Celtic FC, John Collins has become the first person to sign on the dotted line and become a Patron of Gala Fairydean Rovers.

The former Scotland International signed up to the new scheme last week and the Fairydean Rovers are hoping he is the first of many.

The Netherdale Club are inviting individuals and businesses to support their local football team and become a Patron for the year 2016.

Recently voted “Club of the Year” at the Club Sport Ettrick and Lauderdale Awards Gala Fairydean Rovers have an award winning Community Engagement Programme that has seen the club establish a number of community partnerships with local charities and organisations.

The club will be launching their latest scheme at an event in the Borders Sport and Leisure pop up shop located on Douglas Bridge in the town centre on Saturday morning. Individuals and businesses can sign up on the day and will receive a souvenir certificate.

Club Chairman Kevin Temple explained: “The club have launched the scheme in order to assist us in continuing to grow and develop.

“The Patrons scheme is for individuals or businesses who want to feel part of our local football club and help make a real difference to what we are trying to achieve here at Netherdale.

“As well as assisting the club there are a wide range of benefits available for Patrons and we hope that many follow the lead of John Collins and sign up and become part of the team here at Netherdale.”

Benefits of the scheme include entry into a monthly draw to win hospitality at a first team home game for the patron and a guest, a souvenir certificate, the patrons name on a board in the clubrooms, a listing on the new club website, their name in the award winning match-day programme, exposure for businesses through the club’s social media along with regular email updates from the club.

Patron’s fees start at only £10 for individuals and £50 for businesses, however both are welcome to contribute as much as they wish on an annual basis.

In order to become a Patron of Gala Fairydean Rovers then send a cheque for the required amount to Gala Fairydean Rovers FC Patrons Scheme, The 3G Arena, Nether Road, Galashiels, TD1 3HE or contact Club Secretary Graeme McIver on 07738 615 562, email [email protected] or visit gfrfc.co.uk.