An image of Gothenburg Great Neil Simpson’s famous number eight shirt will adorn one of the new Northern Lights buses operated by public transport firm First Aberdeen.
Simpson, who starred for the Dons in their European Cup-Winners’ Cup win over Real Madrid in Sweden in 1983, has won the vote of the company’s travelling customers. Simpson beat Gothenburgh Greats manager Sir Alex Ferguson and captain Willie Miller, who finished second and third respectively in the vote.
Simpson, who is head of Aberdeen FC’s youth academy, said: “I guess there are a few people out there who will relish the opportunity of stepping on Neil Simpson.
“I’m thrilled to have won the competition. I thought my old manager Sir Alex Ferguson, or Willie Miller, would finish in top spot. It’s a real privilege to see my name on one of the brand new buses.”
First Aberdeen director and general manager Duncan Cameron said: “I’m delighted Neil has won this competition. He is an iconic figure within the city, a true gentleman and a genuine legend.
“Beating Real Madrid and winning the cup was a really proud moment, not only for the football club but for the people of the city.
“Many of our customers would have been present in Gothenburg to witness the historic victory, or watched it on TV. Given the 30-year anniversary, it seemed only fitting that we name one of our new buses after a Gothenburg Great.”
First Aberdeen invested £3.5million in 23 new buses and named them the Northern Lights. The buses, which are all fitted with leather seats and complementary wi-fi, began operating on Routes 17 and 18 on July 1.