The 77-year-old has had a long association with the club from standing in the terraces as a supporter, to pulling on the famous green jersey, and to leading them out as the Club’s manager. Pat has done it all.
Completely unaware of the award, Stanton was stunned when his name was read out as the winner of the Special Recognition award.
“Being a Hibs supporter, this means a lot,” he said as he tried to hold in his emotions speaking to Hibs TV. “Starting off playing for the club, you would never, ever think you’d have a night like this.
“Getting this is a Hibs thing! It’s tremendous.”
After collecting the award on stage, he received special messages from Sir Alex Ferguson, John Blackley and David Gray – all three praising him for his contribution to football and Hibernian FC.
“These guys are all friends of mine, I’ve known them for years, so for them to find the time to come on and say nice things is really good. You can still be surprised even at my age!”
He ended by admitting what the award meant to him…
“I’m a Hibs supporter. Just to play for the club was a big thing and I never thought I’d go on to play so many games or still have an association with a club.
“My dad would be proud of this. He really would be pleased.”
