Hearts were today mourning the loss of former scout and kitman John Harvey, who has sadly passed away. A well-known figure around Tynecastle Park and the club’s Riccarton training base, Harvey is certain to be missed by everyone who knew him at Hearts.

He was the son of former Tynecastle player and manager John Harvey and worked for the club in different roles during the 1990s. He worked as an opposition scout during the tenure of former Hearts manager Jim Jefferies. He later up a role in the kitroom and continued helping behind the scenes.

Hearts issued a statement earlier today confirming the news. It read: “Heart of Midlothian is saddened to learn of the recent passing of John Harvey. John, the son of former player and manager John Harvey, was a popular figure at Tynecastle Park, providing opposition scouting for Jim Jefferies in the 90s before taking on a role in the kitroom. Our thoughts are with John’s family and friends at this time.”

Supporters reacted to the news on social media after Hearts’ announcement. “Sad news, I knew John from Royal Musselburgh Golf Club in the 80’s… great guy . RIP John,” wrote George Thomson. Lisa Dobson added: “RIP big man. Thoughts and prayers to all who knew you.”