Patrons of the Ramsay Arms Hotel were able to see and have their picture taken with the famous trophy as it waited halfway between Dundee and Aberdeen, to see whether Celtic or Rangers would finish as champions.

A helicopter chartered by the SPL was charged with delivering the trophy to either Tannidice Park, Dundee where Celtic were playing or Pittodrie Park, Aberdeen where Rangers were in action.

It had been thought the helicopter would wait at the former RAF Edzell base, but its eventual landing site was a farmer's field near Fettercairn.

Lynne Whyte, owner of the Ramsay Arms said the first she knew something was happening was when officials from the SPL and sponsors Clydesdale Bank turned up in reception.

"They said they needed somewhere local where the helicopter, carrying the SPL trophy could be put down.

"A local farmer was more than willing for the helicopter to land in his field."

The helicopter landed at Balmain Farm, just south of the village, but there were more surprises in store for residents when the group returned to the hotel carrying the cup.

Word quickly spread and scores of locals descended on the Ramsay.

"There were 40 or 50 people in the reception trying to get a glimpse of the cup," said Lynne.

After receiving word that Celtic were the champions, the helicopter took off and flew the 35 miles - 15 minutes flying time - to Tayside Airport, then the trophy was taken by police escort to the ground.