Meet the golden winner of our Aberdeen Inspired's Spot The Ball contest, Jordan Declan. Image - Aberdeen Inspired
Scotland has finally produced a World Cup winner after Aberdeen man Jordan Declan scooped the top Golden Ball prize as part of Aberdeen Inspired’s Paint The Town Tartan campaign.
The Business Improvement District’s drive saw shops and businesses dress their premises in tartan to cheer on the Scottish squad during the tournament.
It included a Spot The Ball contest, where venues hid miniature footballs for customers to find and win discounts and giveaways.
But sharp-eyed Jordan, 28, from Summerhill claimed the top prize - a £120 Aberdeen Gift Card – after finding the Golden Ball tucked away in Café Andaluz.
“I saw a photo clue online about where it might be, and that gave me the extra hint I needed to go to Café Andaluz, and I managed to find the Golden Ball,” said Jordan.
“It was just past the desk where customers are welcomed, on a shelf with two wine bottles next to it – it caught my eye straight away.
“There was someone else right behind me, also looking for the Golden Ball, so I was quite lucky to get it first. I did shake his hand, though.
“I felt ecstatic when I found it, really happy and jubilant.”
Would you have spotted the Golden Ball in Cafe Andaluz? Image - Cafe Andaluz Aberdeen
Jordan said he was grateful to Scotland player John McGinn, who scored the team’s only goal in the World Cup, boosting the original £100 Aberdeen Gift Card pot by £20.
“Unfortunately, Scotland didn’t do well in the World Cup – but I’m glad that I’m a winner,” he said.
Jordan already has his spending plans in place for his Golden Ball winnings.
“I’m looking to get a pair of headphones from HMV, maybe get a Spiderman toy for my nephew – and maybe take a lucky girl on a date.”
Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, said he was delighted to see how thrilled Jordan was at being a Spot The Ball winner.
“His reaction reflects the positive feedback we’ve had from so many people about our Paint The Town Tartan campaign – including Spot The Ball - and the buzz and vibrancy it brought to the city centre.
“It was a great way to celebrate Scotland’s return to the World Cup – no matter how short-lived that was. I’m sure we will be doing it again – and hopefully for longer – in four years’ time.”