COWDENBEATH officials have paid tribute to the club's former kitman Bert Johnston who passed away this week.

The club learned of the passing of Robert (Bert) Johnston from Lochgelly.

Bert worked in the bakers in Crossgates and on his retirement, became the kitman for Cowdenbeath FC.

Latterly, he became a director and enjoyed his proudest Cowdenbeath moment in 2006 when Mixu Paatelainen's team won the Third Division title.

Bert was a diehard and used to get very frustrated when things were not going well for the Blue Brazil.

But seeing the club also win promotion in 2010 and 2013 really pleased him and also surviving in the Championship for three seasons.

Said director David Allan: "Cowdenbeath FC was Bert’s passion and he was a Cowden devotee through all the years. "Our sincere condolences go to all his friends and family on the passing of another of the Old Guard of Cowdenbeath supporters."

A minute's silence was observed at Saturday's game against Stenhousemuir in memory of Bert.