Football memories are pitch perfect

Members of the Paisley Football Memories group enjoyed a visit from Dougie Hope this week as part of a nationwide tour.

- EDEL KENEALY

The category one ref arrived at the SMISA Stadium on Monday as part of a Scottish FA and Specsavers initiative which brings football legends and retired referees to speak to participants of Football Memories.

Football Memories uses the beautiful game to support people living with memory loss conditions including dementia and Alzheimer's, as well as those experiencing loneliness and social isolation.

Dougie, one of the most revered officials in Scottish football, refereed more than 1,000 matches in Scotland - his last being Dundee United's 1-0 victory over Rangers in the 1994 Scottish Cup Final.

He travelled the short distance from his Erskine home to St Mirren Park to share stories from his lengthy career with Buddies.

"It was a pleasure to speak to the group at St Mirren Park and to share some memories with the Paisley Football Memories group," he said.