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Jags vow to bounce back 'stronger and better' from coronavirus crisis


By Alan Beresford

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WE’LL be back stronger and better – that was the message from Buckie Thistle president Garry Farquhar as the club look to build for after the Covid-19 crisis ends.

Addressing fans via video on the Jags’ Facebook page, Farquhar (pictured inset) said that everyone connected with the club had been pulling together as the coronavirus situation bites deeper.

Thistle have been out of action since Friday, March 13 when the SFA suspended all football in Scotland in response to the spread of the virus. Since then, the Highland League have decided that this date would mark the conclusion of the 2019-20 season, which leaves Buckie in eighth place having secured 49 points and Brora Rangers being crowned champions.

The latter stages of the Utilita Highland League Cup 2019-20 will be held over and played early in the 2020-21 season.

Farquhar began by paying tribute to the sacrifices being made to keep Thistle afloat, including a wage freeze.

“You may be aware that all players and staff have agreed to a wage freeze from the end of this month,” he said.

“I’ve sent out big thanks to everyone for agreeing to that.

“We’ll monitor the situation on a month to month basis or until we find out...as to when football will resume.

“As you’ll probably be aware, the season has come to an end so all focus is now on next season and the resumption of competitive football, whenever that might be, but we will be back hopefully we will be stronger and better.”

He went on to reveal that the players were currently undertaking individual training regimes under the direction of Hamish Munro, the club’s sports scientist, who he thanked for his ongoing efforts on behalf of the squad.

The efforts of the club and its supporters to help those in the wider community hit hardest by the lockdown and self-isolation regulations, including the elderly and vulnerable, were hailed by Mr Farquhar.

A team of volunteers have been offering to help with a range of services for those self-isolating or finding it difficult to get out.

These include help with shopping, collecting prescriptions or even just being a friendly voice at the end of the phone to help combat the loneliness many feel as a result of lockdown.

Anyone who would like to take advantage of this service is urged to get in touch with the club.

With most of the club’s normal income streams having vanished with the suspension of football, Farquhar expressed Thistle’s gratitude to those who have made donations.

He also urged supporter to sign up for the Jagspot draw, forms for which can be accessed via the club website.

The Jags president finished off by hailing the Jags’ army of loyal fans.

“As always, the Buckie Thistle supporters are among the best there are going about.

“To each and every single one of you – take care, look after yourself and your loved ones and hopefully it won't be too long before we meet up again at Victoria Park.”

To see the video in full, go to https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IjtpQekn2ScoxhegMKaVUPtyfHi5mmSX/view?usp=sharing or visit the Buckie Thistle Facebook page.

The Jags' Facebook page also contains club news updates.

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