The family of late Hearts legend John Cumming has spoken of their pride at seeing a new sports arena in his hometown of Carluke named in his honour.

The £3.5million South Lanarkshire facility - called the John Cumming Stadium - features a full-size third generation synthetic sports pitch, an eight-lane running track with integrated steeple chase, long jump pit, practice shot put and high jump quadrant.

The new stadium was officially opened on Friday by John's widow Jane, who said: "Having the sports arena named after John is a tremendous honour and I'm over the moon about it."

Daughter Jean added: "Dad was never happier than when he was playing football or doing something to help people. He was tireless in his efforts and there was no holding him back.

"He loved the time he had with his grandchildren and encouraged them all to get interested in sport as it is such a healthy lifestyle. We are all thrilled the Council has chosen to honour him in his home town."

John, who passed away two years ago aged 78, played for Carluke Rovers and went on to achieve legendary status at Tynecastle as the 'Iron Man' with 612 appearances to his name.

Never booked in a competitive match for the Jambos, John won two league championship medals, a Scottish Cup and four Scottish League Cup medals.

At the end of his playing career, John spent 10 years as a trainer at Hearts before returning to work in the steel industry.

Included among the special guests on the day were Hearts historians David Speed and Bill Smith, who are pictured with John's widow Jane at the opening of the stadium.

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