McCaig`s Tower, Wed 21 Dec 21:24

I’m still a little in shock. It is rare to find oneself so moved by the passing of someone about whom one knew comparatively little. But despite that lack of familiarity, I considered her a friend – that was a sign of her generosity – you would see her from a distance at somewhere like Nitten Star, or Ainslie Park, or Ochilview or…or… and she would wave and smile and you felt welcome, and that somehow you belonged, you were part of the family. Even seeing her car, with its very personal number plate, parked near some away ground or even in Halbeath Road would raise a smile – you’d know that Margaret was around somewhere and all was right was the world.

I think it was Shaun Byrne’s mum’s funeral yesterday, and I believe there was a good turn out from the club. I’ve no idea if Margaret had anything to do with that (I wouldn’t be surprised), but certainly I like to think she would have inspired such consideration. When all is said and done, it is not the goals we score, or the games we win, or even the great players that play for us, however fleetingly, it is the acts of compassion and kindness shown by our club that make me proud to be a Par, and that may be her legacy.

My condolences to her family and close friends.