Incoming Forres Mechanics chairman David Macdonald insists it will be business as usual at Mosset Park after taking on his new role.
Macdonald was appointed to the Mechanics helm at a board meeting on Monday, succeeding James Anderson who stepped down last week following 13 years as chairman.
Macdonald previously worked in Moray Council’s housing department before retiring seven years ago, while he also spent 16 years working for Moray and Banff referee’s association, spending the final decade as secretary prior to stepping down in 2000.
The 70-year-old’s association with the Can-Cans stretches began the following year when he took over as secretary under previous chairman Bruce Hay, and he has continued to serve in the position while also occupying the role of vice-chairman in recent years. Macdonald also had a year long spell as assistant secretary of the Highland League under John Grant.
Macdonald feels his familiarity with the running of the Can-Cans will help to ensure a seamless transition, and he said: “It’s an honour and a privilege to be chairman of Forres Mechanics. When the chairman regrettably resigned, we thought continuity for the club was the best way forward, hence my appointment.
“I hope to bring stability and experience to the club, and I’m looking forward to working with my colleagues in the new position.”
Macdonald hailed the legacy of outgoing chairman Anderson, insisting he has taken valuable lessons from his predecessor.
Macdonald said: “His knowledge was invaluable to me. I probably couldn’t have served under a better chairman. He was very supportive and I learned a lot from him.”
Macdonald has enjoyed success during his time at Mosset Park, most notably when the club lifted the Highland League title in 2012.
Manager Charlie Rowley, who oversaw that triumph, has consistently kept Mechanics challenging towards the top of the table in recent years and Macdonald hopes the Moray outfit can maintain their strong showing in the league.
Macdonald added: “The club has enjoyed success over the years and hopefully we can continue to do that.
“We can’t compete with the likes of Brora Rangers – I don’t think anyone in the Highland League can at this time.
“They have got an excellent side together. Hopefully they will go on to bigger and better things as Cove Rangers did.
“It is a very competitive league. We will try our best to maintain our standards, but it is getting increasingly difficult.
“We just have to try and compete the best we can.”
