Tributes paid to ‘very special man’ Stan Brown who was part of Nairn County’s only League Championship winning team from 1976 and has passed away at the age of 69
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A Highland League footballing legend who was part of Nairn County’s only League Championship winning team – in 1976 – has passed away at the age of 69.
The community was saddened to learn of the passing of Stan Brown after a long period of ill health.
He claimed the distinction of being the only player to win league titles with both County and the junior club where he began his footballing career, Nairn St Ninian.
A sporting all-rounder from his youth, however, Stan also played for Nairn County Cricket Club as a teenager and was a life-long member of Nairn Dunbar Golf Club.
And as a Sea Scout he was also a member of a highly successful rowing team at national championships.
He went on to help steer Nairn St Ninian through choppy financial waters and played a pivotal role in rescuing Nairn County from bankruptcy in the 1990s.
Former Nairn County goalkeeper Richard Konczak, who played in the same team the night Nairn County clinched the 1975-76 title in a dramatic play-off against Fraserburgh, led the tributes to his friend after his passing at Nairn County Hospital.
“I’m heartbroken with this sad news. Nairn will be in mourning as I can’t think of a more respected and popular person,” he said.
“Stan was a very special man, and not just as a sportsman.
“He was a very kind, thoughtful, caring, community-minded individual who will be remembered not just as a sporting hero but for his generosity of spirit and humility and for his love of his family and sportsmanship on the field of play.
“He was a very popular and vital part of the league winning team and always worked tirelessly to help his team-mates.
“His left foot was a joy to behold and we will never forget his two assists to Alex Gordon and Peter Robertson that won us the league title that night in Elgin.
“All my thoughts are with his wife Karen and his family.
“I have lost a very dear friend and that loss will be shared by everyone in that 1976 team.”
As a young man Stan entered the licensed trade with his father, also Stan, running the family pub, The Brackla (Canteen) Hotel.
It was a career he embraced and he enjoyed connecting with customers and the community, always willing to support worthy causes as a fundraiser and football coach.
He later ran the Westerlea Hotel with his wife for many years
Nairn Provost Laurie Fraser said: “Stan will be missed by many. Everyone in the town knew him.
“He was an excellent licensee. Indeed I remember one council official saying to me Stan was the best ‘social worker’ he could ask for because he knew all his customers personally and would help them if they were in need.”
Nairn County secretary and vice-chairman Ian Finlayson said: “Everyone at Nairn County Football Club has been saddened to learn of the passing of our championship-winning winger, former chairman and team of the century member, Stan Brown.
“His status as a Nairn County legend is without question.
“He played a massive part in our only championship-winning season to date and returned in the ‘90s to play a huge role in saving the club from financial ruin.
“Without the contribution of Stan, there would not be a Nairn County Football Club today. He is held in the highest esteem, not only for his footballing exploits but as chair of the club through a very trying period.
“His memory will be a blessing and inspiration to everyone at Station Park.”
Stan debuted for Nairn County while still a schoolboy during the 1969/70 season, under coach Eric Geddes.
He began to establish himself as a regular in the team two seasons later, going on to play for nearly a decade with the club.
At a reunion in 2014, reflecting on that season, he recalled: “It was not just the play-off which was memorable about that season. We beat Caley 6-1 and Ross County 5-1, both at home, and won 5-1 at Elgin as well.
“I would have paid to play for Nairn County under Innes (Macdonald) and George (Welsh). When I was approached to sign, I told Innes that I did not want any wages.”
Stan is survived by his wife Karen, three grown up children, Martyn, Keri and Kirstyn, and six grandchildren. Funeral details are yet to be announced.
The club is flying its championship flag as a mark of respect at Station Park.
