Tributes poured in from across Scottish football this morning following the sudden death of Stranraer chairman Shaun Niven.
The 52-year-old, a long-standing Blues fan, had served on the Stair Park committee for over 10 years across two stints.
Niven stepped up to the chairman’s role last May following the resignation of close friend Iain Dougan.
He also served as match secretary and was heavily involved in setting up a new Blues committee on back of financial troubles that led to a Save our Stranraer fund in 2009.
Paying tribute to his friend and colleague, Dougan told Record Sport : “This will take a while to sink in. It’s horrendous news.
“Shaun was devoted to Stranraer FC and served the club so well.
“But he was also a lover of football at al levels and thought nothing of a spur of the moment midweek trip to watch a non-league game somewhere in England.
“He will be a huge loss to Scottish football.”
Stranraer vice-chairman Robert Rice confirmed the news in a statement which read: “Stranraer Football Club is shocked and saddened by the death of its much-loved chairman, Shaun Niven.
“Shaun was a devoted football man and a great friend to all at Stair Park.
“Our thoughts are with Shaun’s family and friends at this awful time.”
Motherwell chief executive Alan Burrows posted his condolences on Twitter. He said: “My goodness, what awful and shocking news.
“The thoughts and deepest sympathies from all at Motherwell Football Club are with Shaun’s family, his friends and everyone at Stranraer FC.”
Former Stranraer player Wullie Gibson said: “Gutted to receive the phone call this morning. Shaun was a terrific guy, always enjoyed being in his company and our chats during my time at Stranraer. A man who will be greatly missed by so many.”
League 2 rivals Annan Athletic paid tribute with a statement saying: “Heartfelt thoughts and condolences from all at Galabank to both Sean's family and everyone associated with Stranraer FC.”
A Stenhousemuir statement read: “Such tragic news to hear this morning. Shaun was very much loved across the league and Scottish football.
“Sending our thoughts and love to Shaun’s family, friends and everyone at Stranraer FC during this difficult time.
While fellow League 2 club Kelty Hearts said: “Tragic news. Thoroughly enjoyed Shaun’s company and football chat whenever our clubs met.
“Sincere condolences to everyone at Stranraer and Shaun’s family and friends.”
An SPFL spokesman said: "Extremely sad news. Shaun was a very popular figure in the game who was dedicated to his club and loved football in general - he will be much missed. The thoughts of everyone at the SPFL are with Shaun’s family and friends and our colleagues at Stair Park."
