Former Hibs chairman Kenny Waugh dies

FORMER Hibs chairman Kenny Waugh – who saw the Easter Road club through some turbulent times – has died in a hospice.

Former chairman of Hibernian FC Kenny Waugh. Picture: Sean Bell

As well as his two children, Mr Waugh, who was 78, is survived by his nine grandchildren.

Mr Waugh, a bookmaker and property developer, was announced as the new Hibs chairman in October 1981.

He had previously failed in a £350,000 bid to take over Hearts.

Speaking at the time, Mr Waugh, who later became a controversial figure, said: “This is the happiest day of my life. I am a lifelong Hibs supporter. My unsuccessful bid for control of Hearts is a past chapter.

“I am a Hibs supporter by birth and upbringing. I wanted an opportunity to be active in football, and I could not be happier that it is to be with Hibs.”

In May 1983, he turned down a £375,000 bid from an Edinburgh consortium to take over the club.

“I have been here only a year, and to talk of a consortium buying the club is nonsense,” he said at the time. “I have just bought the club. No matter who meets where or when, it is not for sale.”

Hibs legend Pat Stanton, 70, who captained the team when they won the 1972 League Cup final against Celtic, and who later went on to become manager, said: “I’m very sorry to hear the news. Kenny was the chairman when I was there.

“He was a very nice man, great company and enjoyed a laugh.

“He didn’t rant and rave but just listened to your opinion, no matter how you cut it.

“Kenny was just the straight deal.”

Stanton recalled Mr Waugh’s days as chairman of the Easter Road club and his signing of goalkeeper Alan Rough in 1982, which he described as the “highlight” of Mr Waugh’s career.

“The club was at a lull but fortunately he had one or two good players like Jackie McNamara and Ralph Callaghan to keep us going,” Stanton said.

“Somehow he scrapped together the money together to get Alan Rough from Partick Thistle.”

A spokesman for Hibs said: “Hibernian FC were saddened to learn of the passing of former chairman Kenny Waugh snr.

“A season ticket holder for a number of years, the publican and bookmaker realised his dream of owning his club in 1981.”

Chairman Rod Petrie said: “On behalf of everyone at Hibernian Football Club I would like to pass on our condolences to the family and friends of Kenny Waugh snr following the sad news of his passing.

“Kenny had a real passion for all things Hibernian and led the club with distinction as chairman from 1982-1987.

“Our thoughts go out to all those who knew Kenny at this sad time.”