Everyone connected with East Fife Football Club was devastated to learn of the sudden passing of Vice-Chairman John Barclay. John joined the Board of Directors in 2002 but his allegiance to the Fifers began more than 50 years earlier, when he would attend Bayview Park with his father.

John’s working life included a spell as an Avionics Technician in the Royal Air Force and an offshore worker with McDermott’s but he will be best remembered locally as Landlord at the popular Millfield Hotel in Glenlyon Road Leven, which he ran, together with his wife Margaret for 15 years.

It was his experience in the catering and licensed trade industries, including his position as secretary of the Fife Licensed Trade Association, that John was able to bring to his role of Director at Bayview, managing hospitality, functions and running the bars at the stadium. John was particularly keen to be at the front of house, ensuring guests and visitors received a warm welcome, with a guided tour of the stadium always on offer. Meanwhile his wife Margaret was part of the team downstairs in the Boardroom, looking after guests and visiting Directors.

As a Director, John was always supportive of the management, players and staff at the club. His first season saw the club gain promotion under Jim Moffat and there were also two memorable title wins in 2007-08 and 2015-16, but even in more challenging times John would be there to provide encouragement.

At home games John would like to position himself above the tunnel and would offer the side vocal support, particularly if things weren’t going so well on the park and the players were in need of a boost. Everyone in the vicinity was familiar with his trademark shout of “Come on the Fife!!” which would resound around the stand. The same cry would also be heard at grounds across the length and breadth of Scotland. From Borough Briggs at Elgin to Stair Park in Stranraer John followed his beloved East Fife, proudly sporting his black and gold scarf in addition to his club tie.

But it will be that cheery smile and warm handshake that John will also be remembered for, always finding time for a chat. He will be greatly missed.

The club would like to extend its sincere condolences to John’s wife Margaret and family and friends at this difficult time.