A 90-year-old minute book from Ardrossan’s Junior football team has been discovered with some interesting notices from the club from their 1926/27 season.

Uncovered and transcribed by local man George McGrattan, the minutes are detailed and explain the day to day running of a club. 

The following is typical routine of a meeting: “Mr Price presided at a meeting of the above Club held this evening. Other members present were Messrs Simm, Barbour, Morrison, Shanks, Braniff, Gracie, Fullerton, Young, Taylor and Wallace. Saint Mirren Football Club made an application for permission for two of their players to train at Winton Park. This was granted. The treasurer’s report was then submitted. As a result of our second round Ayrshire Cup tie versus Kilbirnie Ladeside, the treasurer intimated there was a credit balance of 3d. The secretary reported that he was unable to obtain any information that would lead to our lodging a protest against Kilbirnie Ladeside. The right-half of Rutherglen Football Club was recommended. For the Scottish Cup tie versus Larkhall Thistle, the following selection was made – Wright, Mack, Taylor, Reid, Dougan, Biggar, Lawrie, Doolan, Smith, Miller and Kennedy. The reserves were Barlow and Rugg. Application was made for the use of Winton Park for a Railway Cup semi-final. It was agreed that they be given the first date we are away from home in League business. We would take the stand drawings. This concluded the business. Charles Price, Chairman.”

The differences in just 90 years are clear to see. 

 

Ref complaint

 

There were reports by several of the committee regarding the incompetency of the referee in the game versus Ardeer Thistle at Stevenston. 

It was agreed to lodge a complaint against the referee to the League.

It was agreed to purchase five pairs of Mansfield Hotspur boots from the Cooperative Society.

 

 

Knickers knackered

 

The trainer reported that the football knickers were past repair and it was agreed to purchase twelve new pairs.

The secretary read a letter from the secretary of the Social Club intimating that they had a balance of £18 0s 0d to spend on supplying Winton Rovers with twelve pairs of football boots, balls, nets and stockings.

 

Compensation 

 

The secretary read a letter from James Williamson who stated he was unable to play on Saturday. 

A second letter from Williamson disclosed he had lost two weeks work as a result of his injury and that the club might recompense him. 

It was agreed to grant Williamson £2 0s 0d.

 

Police and bonuses 

 

It was agreed that two policemen be obtained for the game against Troon. 

A discussion took place regarding finding the rate of bonus to be paid to players – so much for a win, draw or loss.

However, it was agreed that the present system remain.