Willie became the club’s Honourary President in March 2004, succeeding the late Eddie Sanderson.
Willie is a former player and after hanging up his boots became involved on the committee. He initially took up the position of groundsman, even cuttting the park himself!
Probably the highlight of Willie’s time on the committee came in 1962 when Vale played Hearts at home in the Second Round of the Scottish Cup. Apart from putting in a wealth of work preparing the ground for the big day by putting in sleeper steps on the grass banking surrounding the pitch, both Willie and Eddie Sanderson were interviewed by Border Television on the Friday evening before the match. It’s thought they may have been the first Innerleithen folk to appear on television.
Along with other volunteers, Willie had a hand in the building of the current pavilion after the previous one had been destroyed by fire in 1974. The finishes in the dressing rooms are down to Willie and Dougie Barnett’s handiwork!
Willie occupied a number of positions on the committee and took on the joint role of Chairman and Treasurer in 1985 after David Cowe retired through ill-health. In 1987, the current covered enclosure was officially opened by Eddie Sanderson, assisted by Willie and in process had the pleasure of unfurling the East of Scotland League Championship flag, won the previous season.
While Chairman, he was involved in the club centenary celebrations in 1991. In total, Willie served on the Vale committee for a remarkable total of 48 years!
Willie is still a regular visitor to Victoria Park for games and of course attends all official functions in his capacity as President. As one of the game’s true gentlemen, the club could not wish for a better figurehead and ambassador.