Tributes have been paid following the death of a ‘much-loved’ West Lothian football club’s secretary.
Steven Macmillan, secretary of Stoneyburn Junior Football Club, passed away tragically aged 42.
The avid Hearts fan has been described as an ‘absolute gentleman’ as messages of support across West Lothian and East of Scotland football went out to his family and club.
Stoneyburn Junior FC led the tributes, writing: “It is with great sadness that our much-loved secretary, Steven Macmillan, has sadly passed away.
“It goes without saying that football is completely irrelevant at this difficult time and as a club we are at a loss for words.
“Our thoughts are with Lyn, Emma, Sarah, Alex, David and the Macmillan family and we will do all we can to support you all at this heartbreaking time.”
Stoneyburn’s scheduled Scottish Junior Cup fixture with Livingston United was postponed following the tragedy, while a minute’s silence was held at other matches across the region.
The East of Scotland Football Association paid tribute on social media, writing: “By now many of you will have heard the extremely sad news of Steven MacMillan’s passing at the age of just 42.
“In shock here still, considered Steven a friend though our clubs’ paths haven’t crossed in a while - he was a genuinely good guy who, as the reaction to his untimely loss shows, was very highly thought of by a great many people in Stoneyburn and beyond.
“On behalf of all involved in East Of Scotland football, may I offer the most sincere condolences to the MacMillan family and to everyone at Beechwood Park.”
East Region Scottish Junior FA also paid tribute, saying: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our friend Steven Macmillan.
“Steven served on both the ERSJFA and SJFA Management Committee’s and was passionate about his club, Stoneyburn Juniors and the Junior game.
“Steven was one of the good guys, an all round good bloke that will be sorely missed.
“Our thoughts are with Steven’s friends and family as well as everyone at Stoneyburn Juniors.”
Fellow West Lothian sides also paid tribute with Blackburn United saying: “The terribly sad news this morning about the death of Stoneyburn secretary Steven MacMillan at such a young age puts all our worries about football into perspective. Our sincerest condolences to the MacMillan family and all at The Fulshie.”
Harthill Royal posted the following on their social media account: “It goes without saying Steven was an absolute gentleman and will be sorely missed by all at Harthill Royal.
“He was not only highly respected by us, but also a great friend to many involved at Gibbshill. Our thoughts and condolences go to the McMillan family. RIP Steven.”
Stoneyburn Bowling Club described Steven as a ‘big part of our wee village’ in their tribute, which said: “Everyone at Stoneyburn Community Bowling Club, were saddened to hear the passing of Steven MacMillan this morning.
“Our heart goes out to all of Steven’s family at this very sad time.
“Stoneyburn has lost another true community passionate spirited person, who was a big part of our wee village and community. Sleep tight Steven.”
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