RHU Amateurs paid tribute to those that they have lost over the last 18 months with a memorial day ahead of their Caledonian League match on Saturday.

The teams were led out by Rosie McNicol, who became the club’s first ever matchday mascot, and were then piped onto the pitch by Colin Lawrie before a minute’s silence was held.

A number of famous Rhu faces were also in attendance, including Finlay Colquhoun, who was the captain when the club lifted the Scottish Amateur Cup at Hampden in 1967.

The idea came from club captain Gordon Brodie, who himself lost his father and Rhu legend, Tony, last year.

Brodie was delighted with the turnout at DCF Park for their clash with Doune Castle. And whilst things didn’t go Rhu’s way as they went down 3-0, he feels it was important to remember those that are no longer with us.

Speaking to the Advertiser, he said: “The idea of a memorial day was to celebrate the lives of those we lost during Covid and to the ex-players, friends and family members who are sadly not with us anymore.

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“It’s been a tough time during Covid so we thought doing a memorial day would be a good way to get everyone together enjoying the Rhu atmosphere and also to show our respects.

“I lost my dad nearly a year ago and due to restrictions we couldn’t have a proper send off that he deserved, so I know from experience how important it is to have the chance to remember the important people in our lives who sadly aren’t with us.

“The attendance on the day is testament to the memory of those we have lost with an incredible turnout, and the atmosphere we’ve all missed came back to Rhu with a bang.

“Colin Lawrie as expected was immense with his piping before the game and great thanks must go to Doune Castle for taking part with an impeccable minute’s silence.”

After the game supporters and members headed back into the clubhouse to watch Scotland’s World Cup qualifier with Israel and share stories and memories.

Brodie added: “Although the result was disappointing the boys fought right to the end.

“The clubhouse was buzzing after the game with many stories shared and shows that the memory of those we’ve lost will never leave us.”

The club’s Greater Glasgow Premier League outfit return to action this Saturday against Waterside AFC in the West of Scotland Cup. Kick-off at DCF Park is 2pm. The Caledonian League side face EK Thistle Colts on the same day in the same competition.

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