Andy had been involved with the Victoria Park club for almost 20 years.

His loyalty, humour and hard work made him one of the most popular characters, not just at the Vale, but in non-league football circles.

Vale of Leithen chairman Jack Diamond told us: “When I first arrived at the Vale as a boy around 20 years ago Andy was there. He always had a smile on his face and he became a great friend to me over the years.

“You would struggle to meet anyone more hard working than Andy, and he never looked for any credit.

“We were all stunned by the news of Andy’s death and deeply saddened.” Away from football Andy and his late wife, Jean, ran a greengrocer’s shop in Innerleithen until their retirement.

He had worked for many years at a nearby sawmill ahead of moving into retail.

After Jean’s death four years ago, Andy dedicated even more his time to his beloved football team as well as their two children and their grandchildren.

He will be deeply missed by all of his family and close friends.

But for the many who knew him, it will be Andy’s presence at Victoria Park that will be the biggest miss.

Vale secretary Alex Currie said: “Andy never missed a game - home or away - and he was a true character.

“You enjoyed being in Andy’s company - he will be such a big miss in many ways.

“Our thoughts are with Andy’s children and grandchildren.” Despite not feeling well in recent weeks he was still on the gate last Saturday for the King Cup match with Edinburgh University.

And his infectious smile and laugh was still lighting up the Victoria Park boardroom even after the two-nil defeat.

Vale assistant manager Fraser Ogilvie said: “I only knew Andy for two or three seasons but he was always there with an encouraging word and a smile.

“He was popular with the players and the management and will be a huge loss.” Andrew Scott died suddenly at home on Wednesday.

An appreciation will be held ahead of tomorrow’s match with Gala Fairydean Rovers.