Ross County heroes' ring around scores with senior citizens; Dingwall club legends check up on fans during coronavirus lockdown
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FIVE kind-hearted Ross County heroes manned the phone lines for 48 hours to give older season ticket holders a morale-boost amid the coronavirus lockdown.
With co-managers Steven Ferguson and Stuart Kettlewell leading the way, personal calls were made to check on the well-being of no fewer than 375 over 65s among the Staggies’ support.
Also joining in were club sporting director and past defender Scott Boyd, former midfielder Richie Brittain, now reserve team manager, and current player-coach Don Cowie.
The response from delighted fans was overwhelming.
Mr Ferguson felt it reflected well on communities throughout the Highlands and Islands that the vast majority of respondents reported being very well looked after by family and neighbours.
“They support us during the football season and it was only right for us to try to support them a little bit during this difficult time,” he said.
“The generation of folk that we called would all have seen us in action, even me! Don represented the current team and I was the past player furthest back in time.
“I thought it was a really good idea and it was very well received, to be fair.
“We really didn’t expect it to have such a big effect and draw such a warm response. For some, it really made their day.
“It was just a small token of our appreciation and care at a time when I think it is especially difficult for the older ones.
“One of the really pleasing things - and it probably sums up the Highlands - was that the vast majority said they had a good family support network around them.
“I also had a few where the community were rallying around to help each other, with neighbours doing the shopping and stuff like that.
“We were just able to give them a wee boost and have a chat about the football.”
Between them, the five County personalities can count an incredible 1196 appearances, 155 goals and 58 years’ service for the Premiership club.
Collective honours include two Championship triumphs, one Second Division title one Third Division title, three Challenge Cups and a Development League title.
One of the loyal fans contacted was Pat Galbraith from Alness.
“It was a lovely surprise, it really was, and very nice of them to do that," Mrs Galbraith said.
“We started going with my grandson at seven, and he’s now 27, so that's 20 years.
“I’m a big fan of Scott Boyd so it was absolutely great to speak to him.
“This is such a depressing time and when you’re on your own it is worse. I’m sure it has given a lot of people a real lift in spirits.”
