PARLIAMENTARY PRAISE FOR DUMBARTON FC AS SONS MARK 150^th ANNIVERSARY

West Dunbartonshire’s MP Martin Docherty-Hughes has congratulated Dumbarton FC as the club marks its 150^th anniversary this week.

The local MP tabled a motion in the House of Commons celebrating 150 years of Dumbarton FC, known as the Sons of the Rock, noting the club’s rich history since it was formed on 23 December 1872.

Dumbarton FC was one of the most successful clubs of the late 19th century, winning the Scottish Cup in 1883 and the Scottish Football League in the first two seasons of the competition.

Local MP Martin met with club representatives and current Sons manager Stevie Farrell at Dumbarton Library earlier this year, where a special exhibition celebrating 150 years of Dumbarton FC is running until 31^st January 2023.

Commenting, Martin Docherty-Hughes MP said:

“In parliament I’ve paid tribute to Dumbarton FC and warmly congratulate everyone at the club on their 150^th anniversary. Two of my own family members have had the honour of playing for the Sons, and enjoyed a lot of great memories over the years.

“As one of the earliest established football clubs in Scotland and worldwide, the club can rightly be proud of its rich history. I wish all the fans, players and coaching team the best of luck for the rest of this season – and every success for the future.”

Text of Martin’s Early Day Motion:

Dumbarton FC 150th Anniversary – That this House congratulates Dumbarton Football Club as it marks its 150th anniversary; acknowledges that it is the fourth oldest club in Scotland and, one of the oldest in the world with the Club’s rich history outlined in an exhibit at the Scottish Football Museum at Scotland’s National Stadium Hampden Park; notes the valuable and important role it plays in the community with many successful initiatives including the “More Choices, more chances programme” as well as more recent outreaches across the community; highlights that the club plays its matches in the shadow of the iconic Dumbarton Castle, at the Dumbarton Football Stadium, commonly known as The Rock; wishes the club all the best in its anniversary year and hopes for a successful season in the SPFL cinch League Two.