Blantyre football fan plans Jock Stein statue for Hamilton

Nov 19 2009 by Chris Clements, Hamilton Advertiser

A LOCAL football fan is hoping to set the ball rolling for a statue of Jock Stein to be erected in Hamilton.

Graham Anderson (35), from Blantyre, said that his regular journeys through Burnbank have prompted him to enquire about the possible erection of the statue to Hamilton football legend.

Stein managed Scotland’s national side and led Celtic to European Cup glory in 1967. He died of a heart attack on September 10, 1985, shortly after seeing Scotland qualify for the World Cup.

The building engineer explained that he first wrote to the council about his idea last year, but received no reply.

He said: ”I forgot about it until the Wales versus Scotland game at the weekend reminded me of how good Jock Stein was.

“Although we have the Jock Stein Sports Centre, I feel he deserves a more tangible tribute.”

Labour councillor David McLachlan said he fully supports Graham’s idea, but admits funding would be an issue.

He said: “Everyone is aware that times are difficult and a contribution from South Lanarkshire Council would be a problem because we are taking some very sensitive decisions in the near future with regards to some local issues that affect people.

“Looking for funding for a statue would be the last thing on the council’s mind, but I do think it would be nice gesture for a famous man and the contribution he made to football in the area.”

SNP councillor Barry Douglas also supported the move saying:”Jock was a football legend. If there was any way to secure funding for it, I would be happy to support it with the community.”

A council spokesman said they had received no correspondence from Mr Anderson but revealed: “The council are working on a project to honour local heroes as nominated by the public.

“Although still in its early stages, the plan is to create a ‘tourist trail’ of plaques across South Lanarkshire.

“Jock Stein is one of more than 20 nominations suggested by local people.”