'Fan of the year' Stewart Falconer recognised

We wish to congratulate St Johnstone stalwart Stewart Falconer, who was recently named Scottish Football Supporters’ Association Fan of the Year.

Hundreds of nominations were whittled down to a top three and season ticket holder Stewart was crowned the winner.

The award turned the spotlight on the “extraordinary” fans across the country who go above and beyond to support their team.

Stewart was invited as a special guest of the club for Sunday's game against Hearts and was recognised during half-time where he was presented with a unique glass trophy.

He was nominated by Colin MacKay, who is a co-ordinator with Saints Fans Supporting Foodbanks.

Colin's nomination noted: “A lifelong, passionate, St Johnstone fan and long-term season ticket holder, Stewart’s love for his club is only surpassed by his love for his family, who are also Saints supporters.

“In April 2023, a totally blind Hibs fan, Carl Macar, travelled alone to Perth, by train, from his home in Sunderland. He needed assistance and to be met at the railway station to get to the game and asked for help on social media.

“Despite never having met him before, Saints fan Stewart arranged to meet Carl, bring him to the game, assist him in getting to his seat in a different stand, then met him once again after the game and accompanied him back to the railway station.

“Carl later took to social media to praise Stewart and thank him for his help. Stewart has met Carl again, providing transport and assistance when Hibs play in Perth.

“Despite an advanced terminal cancer diagnosis, Stewart continues to get to every Saints game he can. Even a day after painful and debilitating medical treatment, Stewart will still make it to the game and, without fail, carries with him a heavy carrier bag or two full of groceries to donate to Saints Fans Supporting Foodbanks collections.

“At a time when football fans often get bad press (sometimes justified), Stewart is a shining example of what every football fan should strive to be. The motto of Fans Supporting Foodbanks is “Hunger Doesn’t Wear Club Colours”.

“In Stewart’s case, he has proved that neither does empathy and kindness. Stewart - and the example he sets - is not only a credit to his beloved St Johnstone, but to Scottish football as a whole.”

From everyone at St Johnstone Football Club, well done Stewart and thank you for your support.