A PROBATIONER minister has been appointed to the role of chaplain to Tranent and District Community Football Club.

Bill McNair Wishart is currently based at Gladsmuir and Longniddry Parish and will now work with the club and its members to offer pastoral support.

The club described the role as not “primarily” a religious one but more a chance to support its football family.

Bill will initially work closely with the players at Tranent Juniors but will be broadening his remit throughout the community club over time.

Gary Small, manager of Tranent Juniors FC, said: “I believe this is a really positive addition to the club and signals the ambition of our club to further support people. As someone who has battled a number of personal demons myself, I would really encourage anyone who feels the need to speak to someone in strict confidence to utilise this support.”

“I am really proud to be associated with a club who has a desire to support the wellbeing of its people.”

New chaplain Bill said: “The club has a tremendous community ethos and I look forward to working not only with the first team but, in some way I hope, with all 72 teams, coaches and the wider community.”

Tranent & District Community Football Club consists of the following member clubs – Tranent Juniors FC, Tranent Colts FC, Ormiston FC and Hearts Women’s & Girls’ FC.