CHEER WE GO JOHNSTONE!

Devoted fan Margaret leads the way for town's trophy bid

- TAYLOR MURRAY

A Johnstone woman whose mum was part of the celebrations the last time Burgh won the Junior Cup has told how the club was therapy to her during cancer treatment.

Margaret Hamilton was given the devastating news two years ago that she had breast cancer and required radiotherapy.

During this time, the 61-year-old looked for ways to escape the ordeal - and that is where her love of Burgh blossomed.

The florist, who runs All About Flowers on Thorn Brae, had to close down her shop while undergoing treatment but felt the West of Scotland League Premier Division side were there to support her.

And tomorrow, all roads lead to Broadwood Stadium in North Lanarkshire as Burgh attempt to end a 57-year wait for the famous trophy by beating Lowland League outfit Tranent in the final.

"The club were fantastic," Margaret told the Express this week.

"On a Saturday when I used to finish in the shop, or at the time that I didn't have the shop open due to my treatment, I would go up, get a pie, get a cup of coffee and sit and watch the team.

"And yes, I met my own friends there, but I made a lot of new friends as well and the boys are just fantastic at the club, they really are."

Ahead of Sunday's showpiece, Margaret made sure everyone who passed her shop would know who she was cheering on.

From bunting surrounding the shop to flags covering the length of the window, the big Burgh fan nailed her colours to the mast.

Also on display were two items she holds dear - a Burgh top and scarf which were bought for her when she completed radiotherapy.