BALLINGRY Rovers will be under new management on two fronts as the new junior season approaches.

The Ore Parkers did brilliantly last season to stay in the East Super League but with chairman Jim Mackie announcing his retirement from the role as the season was running down a new person was needed to run things.

In addition a lot of committee members had given up for one reason or another and new people were needed to come in and help run the club.

Then manager Stevie Kay decided to give up when his requests for substantial funds to augment the squad could not be met. All in all things looked black down Ore Park, way but things have changed now with Ian Bruce coming in as chairman, seven new committee people on board and a new manager in Lee Dair, who will be assisted by former Lochore Welfare boss Kevin Fotheringham.

Ian said this week, “After 12 years on the committee I had been away for two seasons, when I was told that if a new committee was not formed the club could fold.

“That was a big shock to me and I thought we must do everything we can to stop that happening and I decided to get back involved.

“We have been fortunate that several people have offered to come on board and we now have eight folk to run things but more people would be welcomed if they want to help in any way they can.” He added, “When Stevie Kay left I thought that it would be a good idea to get Lee Dair back as manager and his enthusiasm has been incredible.

“Also with Kevin Fotheringham coming in to assist him with Jock Wylie, Willie Crowe and John Cusick also involved, there is plenty of knowledge of the junior game, at a good standard, on tap.” While the playing side is being sorted out by Lee and Kevin and many of last season’s squad have re-signed, recruitment is continuing, but away from the playing side there are still a lot of things being worked on behind the scenes.

Added the new chairman, “The finances are something we are going to have to work on but we are well into that already and hopefully within a matter of weeks things will be looking a lot better.

“And to boost the coffers we have a fundraiser planned for Sunday 17th August when Dukla Pumpherston are coming to Ore Park.

“Some of the celebrities in the Dukla team will include former legends and we want to make this a real family day out at the ground.” There will also be a Tom Jones and Elvis Tribute Show at the social club on Saturday 2nd August.

Ian wished to thank Jim Mackie for his work over the years with the Rovers; Fay Mackie for her contribution; and John and Jane Murphy, for their efforts at Ore Park.

Rovers will have their first friendly on Saturday 19th July when Rosyth Recreation come to Ore Park followed by matches against Oakley United, Thornton Hibs and Jeanfield Swifts before the end of the month.

Meanwhile as Ian Bruce stressed, if anyone would like to go along and help Rovers in anyway they should give him a call on 07711909040 or call in at Ore Park.