A REMARKABLE season for Tranent Juniors is being recognised in the Scottish Parliament.

The football club secured promotion to the Scottish Lowland Football League (SLFL) on Saturday after victory over West of Scotland Football League champions Darvel (see story on Page 48).

The 2-0 triumph came on the back of winning the top flight of the East of Scotland Football League (EoSFL) and defeating South of Scotland Football League winners St Cuthbert Wanderers.

Celebrations lasted long into the night on Saturday and the achievement will be recognised at Holyrood.

Martin Whitfield, South Scotland MSP, has tabled a motion congratulating everyone at the club.

The politician said: “Securing promotion to the Lowland League for the first time in the club’s history is amazing news for Tranent Juniors and everyone at the club deserves huge credit.

“I know how much it means to the players, supporters and those who are involved behind the scenes.

“I’m pleased to be able to mark the club’s success at Holyrood and wish the team and everyone associated with it continued success as they embark on a new adventure next season.”

'10 hours from folding'

The promotion marks the latest milestone on a remarkable journey over the last 10 years for the Foresters Park side.

In 2013, the club was “literally 10 hours from folding”.

Since then, they have won league titles and lifted cups, culminating with promotion to the fifth tier of Scottish football.

Councillor Colin McGinn, who represents the town on East Lothian Council, was previously part of the club’s committee.

He said: “2013 was probably the lowest point for many years. The club was down to six players, spiralling debt and a fractured committee.

“The journey to this point and the success the club has had over the past couple of years has been remarkable.

“Back then, you would have been foolish to make any claims as to where they are now.

“The group of people within the club have just driven the club forward over the past four or five years. Nobody would have believed what they have achieved and it is testament to their hard work and passion.”

'Unbelievable season'

Ward colleague Kenny McLeod was thrilled to see his former club promoted.

He said: “I’m absolutely delighted. I have managed to catch a few games towards the end of the season.

“They have got a great facility there; it is brilliant. The playing surface at the park is immaculate and well looked after and well maintained.”

David Innes, chairman at the club, described it as “an unbelievable season” and thanked everyone associated with the club for their efforts.

He said: “Our longstanding vision for Tranent Juniors Football Club was to progress to the Lowland League; however, we didn’t quite envisage achieving it the way we did.

“After a nail-biting finale to the league campaign, the squad summoned up additional reserves to firstly conquer St Cuthbert Wanderers, and then to go one extra and defeat Darvel.”