Two junior football stalwarts who watched their beloved team from the terraces together have died, just five days apart.
Andy Phin and Dick Smith were honorary members of Tayport Football Club and rarely missed a match at The Canniepairt.
Last Wednesday Andy passed away at home in Tayport just three days before his 89th birthday and on Monday, Dick died suddenly, aged 80.
When Andy fell ill, loyal friend Dick called in to visit him every week.
Members of the club, which plays in the East Region North Superleague, were said to be reeling at the loss of two such well-known and dedicated supporters so close together.
The club paid tribute to honorary president Andy, who previously ran the Cobbies Inn, in Tayport, and honorary vice president Dick.
Chairman David Baikie said the pair were “great friends” and true supporters of the club.
A statement issued by the club said: “Former mine host at Cobbies Inn, Andy, a kenspeckle figure in the town, was an enthusiastic supporter of the club, well-known both home and away. He will be sadly missed.
“Dick, a true football aficionado, rarely missed a Tayport match, home or away.
“Until recently, this would invariably have been in the company of Andy who predeceased Dick by five days and whom Dick called in to see weekly during Andy’s period of ill health.”
During his long association with the game, Dick, who was also involved with Newburgh Juniors FC, played in Australia for many years.
He previously owned the George Hotel in Newburgh and latterly was manager at Dundee-based CJ Lang and Son.
Andy started his playing career with Tayport around 70 years ago and was inducted into the club’s hall of fame in 2011.
A minute’s silence is to be held for the pair during Tayport’s next home match on October 5.
