Hibernian's 'oldest fan' cried with happiness after being gifted Christmas VIP Easter Road experience

Hibernian’s “oldest fan” revealed she “cried with happiness” after being gifted a VIP visit to Easter Road by her care home.

Patricia Davidson, 96, is a resident at Care UK’s Lauder Lodge on Wakefield Avenue and has supported Hibs since she was five years old.

She last went to a game in her early 20’s, in 1953.

Inheriting her passion from dad, Angus, the first question she asks when she meets someone for the first time is always, “are you a Hibby?”.

One of her most treasured possessions is a picture of the ‘famous five’ Hibs legends that she displays on her wall, alongside a Hibs bear mascot that sits on her bed.

She was presented with a Hibs scarf as a souvenir of the day. Lauder Lodge via Supplied

After making a request to revisit Easter Road on the care home’s Wishing Tree – a special initiative that enables residents to wish for whatever they want – she was rewarded with a full VIP matchday experience.

Lauder Lodge partnered with Hibernian to organise a special day out, and Pat enjoyed a four-course fine dining experience, a pie and cup of tea at half time, and plenty of snacks.

She was also presented with a Hibs scarf as a souvenir of the day and Malky McKay, the director of football at club, chatted to her about the game.

During the match, Pat said: “I’m crying because I am so happy, I never thought I would be back here to watch a live game, aren’t I lucky to still be having adventures at 96.”

Commenting on the game, she said: “They play differently from in my day. It brought back lots of memories of my dad, when it cost two and six to get in and we had to stand. The stadium didn’t have seating back then like it does now.”

Anees Riaz, home manager at Lauder Lodge, said: “Pat is a big Hibs fan, so we made it our mission to give her the opportunity to watch the team play once again.

“Watching the game reminded Pat of when she used to regularly attend the club’s matches. This experience brought back so many fond memories for Pat and gave her an unforgettable day.

“I want to say a massive thank you to Hibernian FC and the team here at Lauder Lodge who helped make Pat’s wish come true!”