Albion Rovers 3-0 Stirling Albion. Cliftonhill Stadium. 29.09.18

“First win of the season. Looking at the stadium from the local’s point of view. I searched for the home owner to ask permission and there he was, fixing his letterbox and to say he was a bit bemused when I asked if I could photograph his sheets drying in his garden was a bit of an understatement. One of my favourites though.” Ian McLean

Originally from East Kilbride, south of Glasgow, freelance photographer Iain McLean describes himself as “instinctively a Celtic fan”. But disillusioned with the big business feel of such a major club, McLean turned his attention towards Albion Rovers in the year 2000 and has followed them ever since.

Inspired by their role in the community, McLean has become a regular visitor to the Lanarkshire club’s Cliftonhill Stadium home, documenting their fortunes for over 20 years.

He has been with them and their fans on Cup runs that took in Rangers and Celtic, as well as focusing on the hard times of deserted stadiums and strictly enforced restrictions in the aftermath of Covid.

Lower Block is privileged to offer a a selection of Iain’s photographs as quality prints.

Photographs come as Archival Giclée prints with a pearl finish as standard, guaranteeing quality reproduction, at a range of sizes.