It was just a normal Saturday afternoon for Dumfries’ Bob Park as he parked his car and got a coffee at the Queens Arena before entering Palmerston Park for the game.
But whilst Bob – who is a fully qualified whistler and usually referees youth and women’s matches – was standing with pals at the Portland Drive Terrace at half time he was asked if he could help out after referee Gary Hanvidge pulled up with a calf muscle injury.
After Bob said yes, there was a delay of 12 minutes as the officials reorganised themselves, for him to get his ref gear on and get his communication headset fitted.
As Bob entered the Palmerston pitch, he received a big roar from the crowd – who thought the game could’ve been abandoned if Bob hadn’t agreed to help out and run the East Stand touchline for the second half.
Although it’s not been confirmed, it’s believed that the 68-year-old is the oldest ever person to be part of the officials’ team for a Scottish professional football match.
Speaking to the Dumfries Courier about Saturday, Bob – who is a retired firefighter and is now an undertaker in the town – said: “It was just a usual Saturday. I drove across to Palmerston, had a coffee, spoke to friends and went to the game.
“I was checking the half time results on my phone when I got asked by Derek Douglas if I was still qualified to ref because the referee is injured.
“At first I thought he was joking but I quickly realised he wasn’t. I was up for it and went into the dressing room.
“I don’t take my referee kit with me so I had to borrow a ref shirt and socks. I also had to borrow Peter Murphy’s boots! And I got some black shorts from Queens kit man Kev McCormick.
“It all happened so fast. I was just hoping I didn’t pull a muscle running the line.
“I ran out onto the pitch and I heard the fans clapping me on, but I soon realised that was for the players behind me. I heard a couple of shouts from my friends in the stands.
“I just got on with the job and I enjoyed it. It was a great experience. I was actually mic’d up for the first time.
“I’ve watched the highlights back several times and I feel I did a good job.”
He added: “I think I could be the oldest official that’s reffed in a Scottish professional match.
“After the game, my phone was blowing up with messages from my family and friends.
“My lad phoned me and we both had a laugh about the situation.
“After the game I had a beer and a curry waiting for me. I slept well on Saturday night, that’s for sure!”
Incredibly, this is the second time Bob has saved the day as he had to run the line at another Queen of the South match 22 years ago.
On that day, referee David Somers was struck by a ball and fell to the ground. He had to be carried off the field by Queens players – including goalkeeper Andy Goram – and couldn’t continue.
Bob – who again was in the stands for the match in 2002 – was on hand to help out the officials team.
Bob added: “I was actually standing at the same place on the terracing.
“Back then I was a firefighter and had to go and do a night shift after the game.
“I ran from Palmerston, got home and got changed for work.
“I got into work at 6 pm and obviously news travels fast in the town as everyone was wanting to speak to me about it.
“It’s amazing how this has happened not once but twice.
“It’s memories I’ll never forget.”
