A man who has volunteered at an amateur football club for almost 60 years has opened up on receiving national recognition.

John Rodgers has been involved with St Patrick's FPs for almost six decades, helping in a variety of different roles.

He has also volunteered for the Scottish Amateur FA.

The 80-year-old opened up on his long affiliation with the club. 

He said: "I have never played or coached the team, I first became aware of the club when I went to watch my pals play for them in the late '60s.

"I can't remember the specific point that I started helping out but before I knew it I was involved behind the scenes.

"I have done pretty much everything from an off-field perspective.

"I very quickly went from just helping in a small capacity to going to community meetings for the league association.

"I have been involved in the committee aspect since the late '70s.

"I also volunteered as the disciplinary secretary from 1985 onwards. I still attend a number of committee-style meetings."

John recently received national recognition when he was awarded Best Volunteer in Adult Football at the Grassroots Awards 2024.

The event was put on by the Scottish Football Association and took place on Friday, November 15.

The accolade came after John was previously awarded the British Empire Medal for services to the community earlier this month

He detailed what motivates him to keep working at the FPs after almost 60 years. 

He continued: "The main reason I still volunteer is that I really enjoy it.

"I have witnessed three generations of the same families watch and play for the team. The social aspect is also something that is really important

"It is very much a family club and everyone is really close.

"There is a great community and team spirit around the club."

John also reminisced about some of the highlights he has experienced over the years.

He added: "In terms of memorable moments, it is hard to narrow it down over almost 60 years.

"The club winning the first of three amateur Scottish Cups in 1990 at Hampden Park was a real highlight.

"I have so many great memories of my time at St Pat's FP's and hopefully there is more still to come.

"Winning this award has been so humbling and it is a privilege to be honoured in this way."