AN EIGHTH birthday card from Buckingham Palace was delivered to a Dunfermline great-great grandad last week as he celebrated reaching the remarkable age of 108.

And the family of Pars fanatic James Crombie say that he’s still got plenty of room for yet more cards and telegrams from the Queen!

James, who credits luck and a daily exercise routine – together with Stephens’ mince pies and a wee brandy – for his long and active life, was born on July 11, 1909, a year which saw the introduction of the old age pension law.

Born in Pittencrieff Street, James attended Pittencrieff School during the First World War and, in 1922, was a league winner with their football team, playing in goal.

He joined the Co-operative grocery in Randolph Street, serving and delivering using a wheelbarrow at the age of just 14, and aside from a spell in the Royal Marines during the Second World War, he worked for the firm until 1968, during which time he had been promoted to manage 23 branches.

The Athletic’s oldest supporter – who says the 1961 Scottish Cup final win over Celtic was his best moment following the club – continues to visit the Jean Mackie Centre weekly for day care. 

Great-granddaughter Vicki Wightman said: “It’s another great year to reach; he’s doing great and enjoying his years.

"He’s still doing his exercises, having a wee brandy and his Stephens mince pies, and there’s plenty more room for more cards from the Queen, that’s for sure!”

James has one daughter, two grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren and his earliest football memories include watching legendary striker Andy Wilson, who became the club’s first Scotland international in 1920.

Michael Mlotkiewicz, Pars’ general manager, added: “Everyone at DAFC wishes James a very happy 108th birthday, and thank him for his ongoing support of the football club.

"He is welcome to East End Park whenever he wishes.”