A STALWART of Auchinleck Talbot FC has been named as Auchinleck’s Citizen of the Year for 2021/22.

Auchinleck Community Council this week took great delight in announcing that Henry Dumigan has been selected as the village’s citizen of the year following a nomination process over the past few months in which Henry was a clear favourite of local residents.

Henry was selected for the award in recognition of his work with Auchinleck Talbot Football Club (ATFC) where he has served as secretary for nearly 40 years.

During his time as part of the club, Talbot have won more than 70 trophies, including the Scottish Junior Cup on 12 occasions.

The club has also participated in recent years in the senior Scottish Cup,with several high-profile matches against some of the country’s best-known teams, including victories over Ayr United in January 2019 and, just last month, Hamilton Academical.

Reacting to news of the accolade, Henry told the Chronicle: “I’m obviously very proud and privileged to have been selected by the people of Auchinleck.

“At the same time I realise and am only too aware that the success I have enjoyed as secretary of ATFC has certainly not been down to me alone.

“I have always had my wife Linda and my family’s support, and of course support in abundance from a very fine ATFC committee, playing staff and coaching team through the years.

“The club has had many great achievements during my time. The honours, trophies and victories are easy to choose as they are out there for all to see.

“But what gives me greatest pride is winning the trust and confidence of the fans, and the tremendous work that goes on behind the scenes by so many great servants to keep the club at the top. Working with these people is very satisfying yet humbling.

“I will try to the very best of my ability to promote all that is good about the village and people of Auchinleck.”

Henry’s friends and family will join other invited guests on Saturday, February 5, 2022 for the award ceremony which will see him presented with the Auchinleck Citizen of the Year Silver Plate.

Stephen McCarron, chairperson of Auchinleck Community Council, said: “It’s fantastic to be again taking the opportunity to celebrate the work of another local resident.

“We are delighted to provide a great celebratory event which we hope will continue for many years to come.”