A JOHNSTONE football club has netted a welcome sponsorship deal after a generous supporter backed them all the way from Down Under.

The financial boost for Thorn Athletic comes courtesy of businessman David Muir, who was born in Johnstone and played for several local teams before emigrating abroad.

He now runs his own car dealership – Mad Man Motors – in Wangara, a suburb of Perth, in Western Australia.

David has become a social media sensation, racking up thousands of views through wacky promotional videos for his successful car sales firm in which he regularly dresses up as a superhero, complete with special effects, to generate interest and plenty of laughs.

He has also helped a number of good causes in his adopted Aussie community – and has now agreed to back Thorn Athletic by paying for new Nike player bags and run-out tops, as well as man-of-the-match add-ons and incentives for the first team squad.

David told The Gazette: “I love football and I love helping when I can. I’ve watched Thorn Athletic grow over many years and regularly see the work they are doing in the community.

“Although I’m on the other side of the world, I was keen to help in some way and I’m glad to be able to put something back into my home town.

“My brother Alan is head coach there and I get regular updates from him.

“I sponsor teams here, including Carramar, and it’s been great to see the difference you can make.”

Management at Thorn Athletic are delighted by the sponsorship deal at what has been a difficult time for sports clubs and have praised David for supporting the football community where he grew up.

Mark McGee, Thorn Athletic chairperson, said: “Mad Man Motors is quite aptly named. I grew up with David and he was a fantastic footballer in his own right and we’ve kept up the link through Alan and other mutual friends.

“It’s great he’s chosen to back our project in this way and it’s great to show we can attract overseas investment.

“I dare say there won’t be many clubs with support from such far flung corners of the globe.”

For more information about the club, visit www.thornathletic.com.