TRIBUTES have been paid to a Dunfermline man described as being “devoted” to the town’s rugby club following his death at the age of 86.

Kenneth Fraser, who lived in Perdieus Mount, close to Dunfermline Rugby Club’s base at McKane Park, died at home on September 23 following a battle with illness.

A long-standing member of Dunfermline Golf Club, and a former president of Dunfermline Sports Club, Mr Fraser, whose funeral took place at Dunfermline Crematorium on October 1, worked in local government for more than 40 years.

A director of environmental health to the former Dunfermline District Council when he retired in April 1990, Mr Fraser was regarded as a pioneer in waste management in Scotland after introducing mainland Britain’s first wheelie bins to the district.

He was also a former president of Dunfermline Rotary Club, while he also served as a committee member of the Abbeyfield (Dunfermline) Society, and as an elder of the former St Paul’s Parish Church.

Hailed as a “stalwart” by Dunfermline Rugby Club president, David Quarm, Mr Fraser’s association with the Blues began as a player, and he held other positions including referee, secretary, vice-president and president.

A minute’s applause for Mr Fraser was held before the club’s home match with Ellon last Saturday.

His son, Richard, and grandson, Adam, have both gone on to play for the club, and Mr Quarm said: “He was a true gentleman of the sport and devoted to Dunfermline Rugby Club.

“Stalwart is often used at these times but there is no better word to describe his dedication to the club. Ken played many roles and was always willing to do anything for the club.

“A full back in his day, Ken was proud to have played for the club. He also turned his hand to less glamorous tasks such as gate money collector, car park attendant, dressing room cleaner and, most importantly, club supporter.

“Ken was awarded an honorary vice-presidency, and was subsequently made an honorary president. In addition to all this, Ken founded our dedicated group of club custodians, affectionately known as ‘Ken’s Commandos’, who still give up their time, every week, all year, maintaining the fabric of our club.

“He is a huge loss and will be greatly missed.”

Ken is survived by wife, Christine, daughters Heather and Mairi, son Richard, and his three grandchildren.