Calls made for St Mirren exhibition in Paisley Museum

Lifelong Saints supporter Councillor Eddie Devine is keen to see Renfrewshire Council and OneRen, the trust responsible for culture in the area, collaborate on a project to mark the approaching milestone.

Although there are still three years to go, the veteran politician has decided to set the wheels in motion to ensure there is plenty of time to plan a fitting display.

Councillor Devine, who represents Paisley Southeast, has put forward a motion to this week’s full council meeting – seeking support from fellow elected members for the idea.

He explained his thinking to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, saying: “I’m doing it this early because I know the museum plan what they’re going to do years ahead.

“I didn’t want to leave it until the last minute because it would then be difficult for them.

“I think it’s important to celebrate 150 years of St Mirren Football Club when the time comes.

“I’d like to see a specific space with St Mirren items in it, whether that’s photographs or memorabilia.

“I’ve had early conversations with OneRen and they’re interested in doing something, but I feel the council also has to put their weight behind it as well.

“It’s an institution in Paisley. The saying is Paisley is St Mirren and St Mirren is Paisley and that’s it for me.

“Even supporters of other clubs have a lot of time for St Mirren, they are well thought of in Renfrewshire and beyond.”

The Buddies, who were founded in 1877, compete in the Scottish Premiership and finished fifth in the league last season – qualifying for European football for the first time since 1987.

The text of the motion, which will be discussed on Thursday, reads: “Council calls upon OneRen, with the support of the council, to produce an exhibition to celebrate the 150th anniversary of St Mirren Football Club in 2027.”

Meanwhile, the museum, which has been undergoing a £45 million transformation, is expected to reopen in 2025.