A KILWINNING amateur side paid a fitting tribute to their former manager this week.

It comes as Kilwinning AFC hosted the first Michael Howie Memorial Shield tournament on Monday (July 3) and Thursday (July 6).

The tournament was created to honour the memory of the side's former manager Michael Howie, who sadly passed away in 2021.

Michael had a passion for football, and founded Kilwinning AFC in 2019.

The club say that the tournament will continue annually following its first edition - after announcing its creation last month.

A statement read: "This will be an annual event hosted by the club in memory of Michael and show our commitment to keeping the club going in his honour and memory."

Manager Lee Havlin, who was appointed earlier this year, added how glad he was to be able to organise the event.

He said: "This shows another step in how we plan on growing the club's reputation in the community and how we are committed to keeping Micheal's memory alive and kicking right through the club."

The tournament was competed between four North Ayrshire sides - Kilwinning AFC, Irvine Thistle and Sunday amateur sides Girdle Toll AFC and Irvine Celtic Supporters Club.

In Monday's semi-finals, Irvine Thistle defeated the host side, and Girdle Toll progressed past Irvine CSC.

Irvine Thistle won Thursday's final 3-1, with Kilwinning AFC taking third place, and being crowned the first winners of the memorial shield.

Thistle were presented the trophy by Michael's father Robert - who thanked his son's former club for organising the event.

He said: "To all at Kilwinning AFC on behalf of my wife and family thank you for the wonderful tribute to our son Michael.

"We are truly grateful for everything you have done to keep Michael’s memory going once again thank you and good luck in the coming season - I hope to make as many games as possible."