Plaques in memory of two top Meadow figures installed in stand

And last week the Meadow Memories Wednesday Club got the ball rolling by donating the first plaque.

It is in memory of “Mr Meadow” himself - Bob Alexander.

Bob became Club Secretary in 1945-46 and began the difficult job of re-building the club after the war. He led Meadow to the very top of Junior football over four decades, and under his expert guidance the club won the Scottish Junior Cup in 1959, 1963 and 1973.

The late Hugh Drennan, who died last month, was then honoured on Friday, when representatives from the Incorporated Trades gathered at Meadow Park for the placing of a plaque by the Cooper Craft.

Hugh, who played football professionally for Dundee, Dunfermline Athletic and Stranraer, began his career in paid football with Irvine Meadow XI in 1954-55.

He finished his playing days with a spell back in the Juniors at Ardeer Thistle. Later, he became a well-known radio voice on WestSound, as he phoned in his reports from Junior matches throughout Ayrshire. He was also a football reporter for several newspapers, including the Sunday Mail.

Hugh was a Carter and respected past president and director of the Irvine Burns Club. He was a past Deacon Convener of the Incorporated Trades and a Cooper, and was also a member of Seagate Rotary.

In addition, he was also an after-dinner speaker of some note, supporting many local organisations.

His family was represented on the day by Hugh’s widow, Nan, daughter Gill, and son-in-law Iain Gavin. Unfortunately, his other daughter Claire could not be present due to work commitments.

The commemorative plaque was presented to Nan, before being mounted on the front wall of the stand. There was a great turnout, which was very much appreciated by the family.

Both plaques will be mounted on the front wall of the stand and can be ordered, manufactured and installed for £100.

Orders for further plaques can be made directly to Meadow Park or to club officials.