Jimmy was manager at Bayview during the club’s last season in the second tier of Scottish football in 1996-97, and more recently was involved at the club as opposition scout for current manager Dick Campbell.

Dick said: “Jimmy was a legend of Scottish football as a Scotland internationalist and as a member of the Partick Thistle team who shocked Celtic to win the League Cup. He enjoyed success at a great many clubs as both a player and as a manager.

“But he was also one of my closest friends. I was Jimmy’s best man at his wedding, and he has worked closely with me for many years.

“I am devastated at the loss of someone who has been a big part of my life for so long, and someone who was always the life and soul of the party whenever we would get together. He will be dearly missed.”

Club Chairman Liam Anderson said: “Jimmy was at Bayview during a tough spell for the club, although many supporters will remember him leading East Fife to Ibrox in the Scottish Cup in 1997. The team was applauded off the park after a brave performance against a Rangers side who were about to win their ninth consecutive league title.

“It was a pleasure to welcome him back to Bayview more recently, and he was always excellent company, very interested in how we were getting on and full of encouragement.”

Everyone at East Fife offers condolences to Jimmy’s family at this sad time.