Ayr United chairman David Smith admits new North Stand is 'proudest moment' of professional life

Ayr United chief David Smith has hailed the completion of the club's new North Stand as the "proudest moment" of his professional life.

The building boss has overseen the historic 12 month construction of Somerset Park's £3 million redevelopment - by his own admission a labour of love that came with its own health warning. Today marked the official key handover to the club, marking a huge milestone ahead of the stand's glamour opening against Celtic on Friday, July 5.

"I'd be lying if I said the last 12 months haven't been stressful," Smith told the Ayrshire Post. "This has brought together my two big career passions in life - Ayr United and Ashleigh - and by a country mile it is the proudest moment of my professional life.

"Right now it's tough to see that and enjoy it...that will probably come over the weeks ahead. Right now the feeling is one of huge relief and excitement at what lies ahead. It's a special moment to get this over the line on a personal level...my dad's not keeping too well at the minute, but he'll be here on the big night to cut the ribbon with my mum and that will be an emotional moment."

Ayr's ambition off the park has been undeniable since Smith took charge with capital projects such as the new stand and Somerset Hub aiming to be the building blocks for success on the park. Now, with high profile manager Scott Brown in position, United are looking to the new season with one of firm optimism.

Smith added: "We'll see what happens but this is certainly a good start. We've done good business so far this summer and everyone is really positive about the season ahead."