Local hero Stephen Bruce admits he had come close to giving up on ever picking up a Highland League winners medal.

The powerful striker has served the Jags with distinction since making his debut in 1995.

Bruce has netted nine league goals this season and was as influential as ever at Harmsworth Park, ensuring he will never have to pay for a drink in his hometown again.

"I never put my hand in my pocket at the bar anyway!" he joked.

"But seriously, it was just brilliant.  This has been a long time coming.

"We had been close to the title before but I was starting to think it would never happen for me.

"I am 30 now and coming towards the end of my careeer so I am absolutely delighted."

In his time at Victoria Park, Bruce has seen several managers try and fail to guide the Jags to the title.  Gregg Carrol has achieved this feat in just 18 months with what was his third title win following his double with Deveronvale.

And Bruce is full of admiration for the work the Aberdonian has done since arriving at the club.

Bruce said: "What Gregg has done is just fantastic - no other manager has done it in 52 years and his place in Buckie folklore is guaranteed."

Report by Mark Davies, Evening Express