New DASC Shop Opens

DAFC is delighted that the new DASC Shop opened for business on Saturday.

Since our club came out of administration, the DASC shop has acted as a fantastic hub for supporters to donate previously purchased items for resale, as well as donating one off items that they have made personally. Without question, the idea and success of the shop has epitomised what our club should be all about. In addition, the financial support it has provided has been critical.

Previously, the shop was split between two different places, so the new expanded shop at the south west corner of the main stand now provides much needed space and scope. The shop has affectionately been known as “Marv’s Emporium” after Marvyn Stewart, who has provided the drive and determination over the last couple of years, along with the DASC committee.

The new space will also now function as a tea room, and has its own facilities including a disabled toilet. As the shop has wheelchair access off Halbeath Road, it can now provide a welcoming place on match day for a number of our disabled supporters to socialise with Pars fans.

On Saturday, ex pat supporter Kenny Mitchell, was back in Dunfermline, and was delighted to cut the ribbon to formally open the new shop along with first team players, Callum Fordyce and Ryan Williamson. Joining them were Marvyn Stewart, DAFC committee members, supporters and Jim Thomson of The Purvis Group who spearheaded the building project.

The new premises were met with universal approval. DASC Committee member, Ruth Cooper stated “the DASC are proud to have been part of this transformation and welcome the enjoyment this will bring to fans for years to come. This demonstrates the continuing achievements of the Club and its supporters to expand its community involvement. This would not have been possible without the help, hard work and dedication of Ross McArthur, Bob Garmony, Marvyn and the many volunteers and tradesmen to whom we are extremely grateful. Thank you all so much”.

Long-time supporter, Kenny Cowan commented “as a past Chairman of the DASC I am delighted to see the work done to form the new Donation shop / Tea room and office for the supporters club and supporters in general. I was involved when we were given the original small office to use, and we tried for many years to have a better area, but never in my thoughts did I think it would turn out like it has. This shows how our club are a real fan owned club and I would like to thank the football club for all they have done to make this happen. Many thanks to Marvyn Stewart, her helpers, donators and sponsors for all they do on behalf of all supporters”.

Last but not least, Marvyn Stewart stated “I have never felt so proud to be a Pars Fan and a long-time member of the Dunfermline Athletic Supporters Club. We were given the original DASC room in 1986 by club director, Bill Braisby snr at that time and James Watters the then Chairman, little would they have thought it would become what we are seeing today. We have to thank many people for this initiative, Bob Garmory, Ross McArthur, Jim Thomson, the excellent tradesmen, workers and the fans for all their contributions. We will be creating a "Thank You" board for everyone within the new shop, as an appreciation for what was been achieved here. I would also like to thank Kenny Mitchell for his ongoing support for the donation shop, and the sponsorship of the catering for the under 20's games. Also thanks to all the volunteers for the help we receive, especially Margaret, Reynald (our computer hero), Sean, Ruth, Mac, Joan and Leanne. If I have missed anyone I apologise now. I am so proud”.