New stand opened in memory of Tech stalwart Byron Seymour

Welcoming the large turnout, club official Gary Morton said: “Byron meant a lot to everyone at the Tech and we thought we would do something in his memory. It was amazing just how quickly we gathered up the funds; we even shocked ourselves. But it’s a big thanks to the efforts and the generosity of people in Larne town, just confirming how well Byron was thought of.”

Byron’s wife Geraldine officially opened the stand and thanked the club for its kind gesture. “It brings back memories of how much Byron enjoyed it here. This was his second home. Everyone has been so kind and I would like to thank everyone who worked so hard in raising the money.”

Son Paul agreed: “I know how much this club meant to my dad. He spent the best part of 40 years here, as a player, manager and official. I’d like to thank everyone - especially Gary Morton, and all who contributed in raising the money in such a short space of time. It’s like a family at the Tech; it just shows what they can do for one of their own.

“I hope it will be here for many a year though if my dad had been looking down now, he might have been a little bit embarrassed, as he would have thought someone else would have been more worthy. But you can see the crowd here today; everyone really appreciated what he did for the club. I also wish Larne Tech all the best for the coming season.”

The stand was opened prior to the Tech’s pre-season friendly with PSNI which the home side won 3-1.