A lifelong Dundee FC fan has died in hospital after collapsing near Dens Park.
Brian “Beano” Ferme (57), a season ticket holder, watched his beloved team play for the final time in a dramatic late win against Raith Rovers on February 12.
After the game Mr Ferme, from Dundee, walked out on to Provost Road, running adjacent to the ground, and collapsed a short distance away, in full view of other supporters. He was taken to Ninewells Hospital and moved to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary but died in the early hours of Wednesday.
Tributes have poured in since news of his death surfaced. Leading the condolences was Dundee FC, who had sent a signed card from all the players to Mr Ferme’s bedside.
On its website the club posted, “We are saddened to hear of Brian’s passing and would like to pass on our sympathies to his family.”
Dundee FC operations director Jim Thomson told The Courier, “We were all very shocked when we heard about his death. He certainly will be missed on match days.”
Tributes have also been paid through an online Dundee FC fans forum.
“Brian was Dundee through and through and although suffered serious illness he stood toe-to-toe with it to the end,” read one post.
Another, by Miss Dundee FC, added, “Really sad to hear the news my thoughts are with all his family and friends.”
Mr Ferme suffered from diabetes and had several health problems. Over the past four years he gradually lost all sight in his left eye and had only minimal vision in his right.
Despite this, he still went to every game thanks to the club’s commentary for the blind service. A familiar face around the ground, Mr Ferme will continue to help his club with all donations made at his funeral to be given to Dundee FC.
He is survived by his daughter Elizabeth and two grandchildren, Aimee (6) and three-month-old Charlie.