Former president of Caledonian FC dies aged 89 at Highland Hospice in Inverness; Hugh Crout steered Highland League outfit through years of major success
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A HUGELY successful former president of Caledonian FC has died at the age of 89.
Hugh Crout steered the former Highland League outfit through some of the greatest years in its history.
During his period of office, between 1973 and 1983, the club won 15 trophies under the management of his close friend Alex Main, a former Inverness Courier editor.
A resident of the city’s Lochardil Road, he passed away at Highland Hospice in Inverness yesterday (Thursday) morning after a period of illness.
Mr Crout (pictured middle) also served as vice-president and reserve team manager before taking over the leading role from his mentor Dave Birrell and was eventually succeeded by Norman Miller.
During his term in office, he launched and helped run the Caley Social Club on Greig Street.
Gordon Fyfe, a director of ICTFC and Caley player during Mr Crout’s presidency, said: “Hugh was a magnificent servant of Caley FC as a supporter, committee member. He was a passionate and successful president, winning many trophies during his time at the helm.
“His partnership with his close friend, the late Alex Main, was a winning combination at Telford Street.
“He was a real gentleman and made many friends in football, continuing his love for football by supporting Caley Thistle right up until the end. His highlight was seeing the club lift the Scottish Cup in 2015.
“He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.”
Former captain and manager of Caley, Peter Corbett recalled Mr Crout and Mr Main signing him from Clach in 1976.
Mr Corbett said: “This was the start of a highly successful period for the club, winning many honours.
“Hugh was a very fair chairman and a real gent. He tried to include and please everyone.
“In fact, after the turmoil of the merger between Caley and Thistle in 1994, Hugh could be heard at Caley Thistle games shouting ‘C’mon Inverness’, as a show of unity between the two factions.”
Mr Crout was also a manager and director of CH Webster Imperial Typewriters for a number of years. Outwith his great love of football, interests included bridge, jazz, singing and amateur dramatics.
He was the husband of the late Christine, partner of Louise Munro, and father of Carolyn and the late Hugh.
