A lifelong St Johnstone supporter who is a resident at Perth’s Ochil Care Home was left “so happy” after a surprise visit from the club.
Captain Liam Gordon and director Roddy Grant dropped in to meet and chat with Sandy Johnstone on Wednesday before presenting him with merchandise and a rare bottle of Scottish Cup-winning whisky.
Sandy (91), who is loved by staff and residents, has a big passion for football and is always keen to tune in for the results.
Ochil Care Home head of housekeeping Linda Cargill had decided to reach out to Saints in a bid to arrange a special appearance - and the McDiarmid Park club was quick to get involved.
Sandy was overwhelmed with the efforts made for him and said: “I can’t believe I got to meet members of Saints.
“I’m so happy and it’s been one of the best days of my life. I love my bottle of whisky and can’t wait to try some.”
Saints captain Gordon, who is from Perth, said: “I always love doing things like this.
“It was very emotional and we were close to tearing up. Sandy was overwhelmed by the visit and that was lovely to see.
“It was just brilliant to do this for a lifelong supporter and present him with a piece of memorabilia from the club.
“We always need to keep in mind how much the club means to people.
“I will never turn down a chance to make someone’s day because I know exactly how it would feel.
“As a club, we love doing it and having a relationship with the community. I think it’s one of our strengths.
“We will always make sure we put ourselves out there to give that little bit back.”
Popular resident Sandy has lived at Ochil for just over a year now and the staff were delighted to see the “huge smile” on his face as the visit was taking place.
He was able to share this special moment with his wife Eileen and other residents and staff members around the home.
Liz Stewart, general manager at the home, said: “We want everyone we care for to know how important they are to us here at Ochil. It was so nice to see how happy Sandy was – and the staff loved being a part of this as well.”
