MEMORIES OF ‘Jinky’ Jimmy Johnstone—one of Celtic’s greatest ever players—will be abroad at the annual Montrose Football Club sportsman’s dinner on Saturday.

Johnstone died two years ago after a long battle with motor neurone disease and a limited edition replica football from the era in which he teased defences around the world will be auctioned at the dinner, with half the proceeds going to the Scottish Motor Neurone Disease Association.

Soccer First commission- ed 20 of the balls to replicate the one used by the Lisbon Lions in 1967 when they won the European Championship.

Each is numbered and emblazoned with a copy of Johnstone’s signature.

“The reason for the balls is to raise money for charity at functions like our dinner,” said Montrose club director John Crawford.

“We are privileged to get No 7, Jimmy’s position.”

The ball will be auctioned at the dinner in the Town Hall—but bids can be left with Mr Crawford by calling 01674 672064 before 5pm on Friday.

Speakers at the dinner will be former professional footballer with Newcastle United, Liverpool and England Alan Kennedy; a former world sprint champion George McNeill; former professional snooker referee Hugh Brown; and Mitchell Gibb, well known on the speakers’ circuit.