Tributes pour in for ICT "legend" Tommy Cumming who has passed away
A minute's applause will be held during Caley Thistle's home match with Dundee on Saturday
Last updated 20th Apr 2023
A tribute will be held this weekend for an Inverness footballing "legend", who has died.
Former Caley Thistle groundsman Tommy Cumming's first active involvement in football came in the 1970s when he was appointed groundsman at Grant Street Park, home of Clachnacuddin FC.
He then went on to spend nearly 50 years working for Caledonian FC and ICT as kitman and groundsman.
Latterly, Tommy maintained Caley Thistle's training pitches at Fort George.
The club have confirmed Tommy's passing at the age of 77, within the care of Highland Hospice, after a "long illness bravely borne."
He is survived by his wife Margaret, his two sons and eight grandchildren.
ICT say there will be a minute’s applause at Saturday’s home game against Dundee with players wearing black arm bands.
"Tommy lived for his family and football"
Originally from Geddes near Nairn, Tommy also worked with Highland Omnibuses, MacRae and Dick and Stratton Dairy, as a milkman.
Former Thistle, Clach and Caley player Peter Corbett, first met Tommy when they were working with Highland Omnibuses and continued their friendship at Clach and Caley.
Peter's described Tommy's enthusiasm for football as "infectious."
He said: “Tommy lived for his family and football. He was a great groundsman but his interest in the game went well beyond keeping the pitch in good order.
"His enthusiasm was infectious and he was passionate about the team, getting to know all the players."
“The number of visitors he received at the Hospice was remarkable and demonstrated the friendships he made down the years and the respect players and management had for him. He was a legend. And will be sorely missed. Our sympathies go to Margaret, Thomas and Gary and the wider family at this time.”
Jim Falconer, former secretary of ICT and a close friend, said: “Tommy was a good friend and I will miss him.
"He was an award winning groundsman.
"There are so many stories about Tommy and the lengths he went to provide the best pitch and kit possible.
"It was his pride and joy and he took it personal if a match had to be postponed because of the weather.”
Club CEO Scot Gardiner also extended his symapthies.
He said: "Right up until the last few weeks when Tommy was gravely ill, he still made incredible efforts to make our home games along with one of his oldest friends, our former Club Secretary Jim Falconer.
"He was always positive about the team and the club no matter how the game went.
"He will be sorely missed by all of us at Caledonian Stadium, particularly Groundsman Dale Stephen, and our deepest condolences go to his family and friends.
"Tommy was such a character and in terms of service to football in Inverness, we won’t see his like again."