TV star Lorraine Kelly will today launch Dundee United club captain Sean Dillon’s testimonial year.
She is urging her fellow United fans to get right behind the events being planned over the next 12 months.
A long-time friend of the Dillon family, Lorraine is honorary chairwoman of his testimonial committee.
She said: “Sean has been such a loyal player for Dundee United and he is just the sort of man you want in your squad.
“He is a brilliant ambassador for the club and he brings maturity and a sense of commitment to the team.
“He is also a real family man, with two gorgeous sons who are a credit to him and his wife Michelle.”
Committee chairman, local business man and prominent United fan Gordon Deuchars echoed those words.
“In the modern game testimonials are few and far between, it demonstrates commitment, loyalty and passion for the club,” he said.
“Sean is a testament to that.
“He is an inspirational individual, who is a model professional and an exemplary role model for young aspiring players.
“Both on and off the park, he’s a fantastic ambassador for United and other organisations he represents.”
United manager Ray McKinnon also believes few deserve this honour more than his club captain.
“Sean has been a great servant to United and I’ve already seen in training what a dedicated pro he is,” he said.
“Being local and a United fan, I know what a job he’s done since he joined and as well as maintaining an excellent level of performance on the park, he’s been a superb ambassador off it.”
The testimonial programme will start with a race night in the Hegarty Suite at Tannadice later this month, an event that’s been organised with the help of the United supporters’ federation and ArabTRUST.
Between now and next May there will also be two golf days, a sportsman’s dinner, a fashion show, a day at Perth races and, next May, a gala dinner.
Work is also ongoing to arrange a testimonial match.
At Sean’s request, local charities will benefit from the year.
Fans can keep up to date with event on Twitter at @seandillontc or via a specially set-up Facebook page _ www.facebook.com/seandillontc .
