Dozens of tributes have been paid to a Scots football coach who has passed away after a long battle with motor neurone disease.
Geordie Bain was a former player, coach, manager and chairman for Nithsdale Wanderers Football Club in Sanquhar, Dumfries and Galloway.
He was named the George Cruikshanks Player of the Year in 1991-1992 before leaving his career on the pitch to join club management.
The 66-year-old stepped down as manager of the club after 15 years in 2009 but most recently acted as chairman for his beloved team.
Nithsdale Wanderers Football Club have led tributes to Geordie after he passed away on Monday morning.
In a statement, they said: “It is with great sadness that the club has to announce the very sad news that our Club Chairman Geordie Bain sadly passed away early this morning after a long fight against motor neurone disease.
“Today Nithsdale Wanderers have lost an absolute legend in Geordie, a past player, coach, manager, committee member and most recently as our club chairman.
“Geordie will be a huge loss to everyone connected with the club and our thoughts go out to Joan, Stuart, Sandi and the rest of Geordie’s family at this very sad time."
Friends, colleagues and former players shared fond memories of the football legend who they described as a ‘true gentleman’.
Adam Anderson said: “It’s hard to put into words my feelings but I can honestly say that Geordie was one of the best, nicest, fittest and skilful players I ever played against and above all he was an absolute diamond of a guy.
“He will be sorely missed by all, especially his family. It’s a travesty. RIP Geordie.”
Derek Gall added: “Geordie was the perfect role model on and off the park for any young guy learning to play the game he loved. Glad I got the pleasure to play along with Geo.
“My thoughts are with his family and friends, you will be sorely missed.”
On behalf of Lochar Thistle FC, Russell Caskie wrote: “Very sad news indeed, great player, great character and most of all a gentleman of a man.
“Condolences to all Geordie’s family and to all at Nithsdale from myself and all at Lochar Thistle.”
Ian Bell posted: “I knew what a player Geordie was when I played against him and had the pleasure of knowing him as one of life’s gentlemen when I joined Nithsdale.
“He always had time for a chat. A great club are the ‘Dale and I’m so sorry to hear this news.”
Another friend added: “Sorry to hear this sad news, a true gentleman and a teammate that did everything he could for Nithsdale Wanderers Football Club on and off the pitch.
“Sadly gone but will never be forgotten. RIP Geordie.”
