LARGS Thistle boss Stuart Davidson has spoken of the club's pride as team physio Valentina Giorgetti helps people in their recovery from coronavirus.

Valentina is working closely with Crosshouse Hospital's ICU unit to help with the rehabilitation of COVID-19 patients and get them back on her feet.

Valentina has been the club physio for the past four seasons and has played a role in some of their greatest triumphs in recent seasons.

But now it is Thistle's turn to applaud the NHS hero who lives in Largs with husband Marino, who hails from Millport.

Davidson said: "Keep up the good work Valentina from everyone at Largs Thistle FC. We are proud of you.

"Valentina works in Crosshouse Hospital in the physiotherapy department and she helps coronavirus patients in the recovery stage, getting them back on their feet before they leave.

"I have kept in touch with Valentina on the phone and she told me that she has been helping make sure patients are fit enough to leave hospital.

"We have been out applauding the superb work of our NHS every Thursday evening, including the efforts of Valentina's.

"It is nice to give her some credit and recognition. She has worked very hard for Largs Thistle over the past four years.

"Our NHS need to be supported and I hope that people are now realising how important the NHS really is.

"We are all now realising what a superb job they do. What they are going through just now and the sheer effort and determination that they have put in is nothing short of amazing.

"We really can't thank Valentina and her colleagues enough."

Fans have also rallied round, including former Thistle match secretary Derek Scott, who paid tribute to Valentina's efforts.

He said: "We want Val to stay safe. She is doing wonderful work and is a wonderful person."

Valentina thanked the club and its supporters for their goodwill messages.

She said: "I am proud as ever to be part of the NHS.

"I would like to thank Largs Thistle and all the fans. It has been a very heartening thing to see everyone clapping every Thursday."

Photos: Ryan Scott Photography