Tributes have poured in from across Scottish football for an Auchinleck Talbot superfan who has sadly passed away.

John Holroyd had supported Talbot since he moved to Scotland in the 1980s, having been born in Wales and brought up in England.

He quickly became a popular face at Beechwood Park with his passion and knowledge for the game clear to see for those that had the pleasure of meeting him.

Behind the scenes he worked relentlessly to raise funds for his beloved team.

Talbot revealed the sad news on social media last week with tributes flooding in from fans across the country who met John on their away travels to Beechwood.

Cumnock Chronicle:

Beechwood Regeneration Committee (BRC) treasurer, Jim McAuley, told the Chronicle: “I met John when he paid us his first visit. I was one of the editors of the Talbot fanzine and he told us that he had been watching games in the South of Scotland League but found the football poor quality and a punter in a Thornhill pub told him to get himself up to Auchinleck as they had a decent side.

“John later told me he was instantly hooked, he loved the banter and the honesty that came with the junior grade and the fact that he was made welcome at Auchinleck.

“I found him an interesting person and loved listening to his stories about his obsession with programme collecting.”

It would be John’s passion for football memorabilia that would see him leave such a legacy at the club.

He raised well over £20,000 which was donated entirely to the BRC to fund various projects.

Jim said: “John has left a legacy at Beechwood. The money he raised was used to financially help us build a new enclosure, toilets, catering block and finally the floodlights.

“I find it hard to believe he will never be back at Beechwood, his booming voice and broad English accent could be heard all around the ground on match days.

“It’s sad to think that when this pandemic is over and the team have a chance to play under the new lights John won’t be there.

“He worked hard to contribute to our venture and then never saw them lit up. I think I will have a lump in my throat that night. We have lost a remarkable supporter and most of all a good friend.”