Surprise tribute dinner marks Tom Farrell’s 44 years at Craigmark

Dec 10 2010 by Mike WIlson, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

STUNNED Tom Farrell thought he was heading to a ceilidh with his wife.

Instead, he was bowled over to find a packed room of family, friends and junior football fans surprising him with a testimonial dinner and dance.

Tom, 73, spent 44 years as a do-it-all at Craigmark where he was the driving force behind the Dalmellington juniors.

Supporters at the club were determined to give him a fitting send-off and organised the secret bash at the Railway Club in Auchinleck.

Tommy was showered with gifts, £880 and tributes galore. He said: “It was a marvellous night. How they kept it secret I will never know.”

Former Craigmark managers and players were among the bumper turnout.

Tommy hailed Frank Gormanley for organising the surprise bash. He also thanked Lugar Boswell, Cumnock Juniors along with Tom Bowie, William Johnstone, Matt Speirs, Jim and Mandy Harkness and Provost Stephanie Young of East Ayrshire Council who gave gifts.

Tom also received the Bertie Black old crocks memorial shield for his services to junior football.

Tom added: “I would also like to thank Sandy Anderson for his generosity to the club over the years, David Paterson, who chaired the evening and Jim Morrison for providing the entertainment.”

In a tribute to Tom, Frank Gormanley said: “The dedication, input, personal attribute, passion and sheer commitment shown to the club, Dalmellington and its townspeople, players past and present and also the junior game throughout Ayrshire and in Scottish Cup competitions, can only be appreciated by us all.”