TRIBUTES are being paid to Vale of Leven FC legend and local pub landlord, Drew Busby, following the news of his death at the age of 74.

While he enjoyed a stellar professional career in the game, Busby, who was landlord of the Waverley Bar in Dumbarton is fondly remembered for his spell with the Vale, having spent three seasons with his local side after dropping to junior level in 1967.

Busby enjoyed spells with the likes of Heart of Midlothian, Airdrieonians (where he scored 43 goals in 93 league appearances), Morton, Queen of the South and Third Lanark; in fact, Busby scored Third’s Lanark’s final goal before the club went bust.

Annnounching his death on Twitter, Drew’s son, Alan, wrote: “Our family are saddened to say that our amazing dad/husband and papa, Drew Busby, passed away this morning surrounded by his family.

“We are very much in mourning but appreciate all the many kind words being sent to us. A legend to some, a hero to others, we are so proud of him.”

 

The powerful striker and midfielder is remembered especially fondly at Hearts, having scored 55 goals in 178 league appearances for the Gorgie club.

Hearts posted on Twitter: "Heart of Midlothian Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the legendary Drew Busby.

"We offer our sincerest condolences to the family and friends of the late, great Drew."

 

Hearts’ stadium announcer, Scott Wilson, paid tribute to Busby on Twitter, writing: “The great Drew Busby sadly passed away this morning and the Hearts family has lost another legend.

"He was one of the most humble, self-effacing men I ever met and I was honoured to be classed as a friend.

“My thoughts and prayers are with his family. RIP Drew.”

Supporters added their own social media tributes, with one fan on Twitter writing: "A large part of my youth and early adult life was spent in The Waverley, Dumbarton. Memories that will last forever.

"Drew Busby was an absolute gentleman to me and pals and a huge part of our lives. A sad day.

"Rest in peace Drew. An absolute gem of a man." 

A spell across the Atlantic saw Busby playing with Toronto Blizzard in Canada.

As his playing career wound down with Queen of the South, he spent two years in a player-manager role at the Dumfries club, from 1982-1984.

A book on his life and career, The Drew Busby Story, was released in 2013.

The Waverley Bar, where Drew had been landlord, wrote on its Facebook page: "The Busby family are saddened to say that our amazing dad/husband and papa Drew Busby passed away this morning surrounded by his family and wee Meg the dog at home. We are very much in mourning but appreciate all your kind words and thoughts!

"Drew Busby, Hearts legend!

"The Waverley will never be the same!!!

"Thank you to the amazing staff and regulars in the pub."