Business Evolution and Passion for Sports Memorabilia

Starting with just two football shirts displayed in the reception of a small company, John Horne’s business has grown remarkably over three decades. Today, JR Scaffolding employs 200 staff and he is recognized as one of the country’s leading collectors of sporting memorabilia.

He reminisces, “My wife, Annemarie, and I launched the company with only £1,100. I had no formal business training or customer experience.” In 1995, they set up the office with signed Celtic and Rangers shirts, which were signed by notable players like Pierre Van Hooijdonk, Jorge Cadete, Ally McCoist, and Gordon Durie. These jerseys became ice-breakers during visits, with Horne openly supporting Rangers, remarking, “A tenner is a tenner, regardless of who you support.”

Horne’s journey spans a football career that saw him rub shoulders with legends such as Billy McNeill, to establishing a thriving business rooted deeply in sport. His collection has now surpassed casual keepsakes to include signed football boots, portraits, boxing gloves, and even a unique signed water bottle from Paul Gascoigne from 1996.

He recently announced the auction of 130 items, contributing to charities close to his heart. The Emmie Smillie Charity Foundation, established after a friend’s daughter died of cancer, and MND Scotland, linked to his close friends who lost their son Aaron to motor neuron disease, will benefit from the proceeds.

Horne’s collection stems from years of acquiring memorabilia at charity events and auctions, including signed shirts from footballing icons like Diego Maradona, Lionel Messi, Pelé, and boxing legends Muhammad Ali, Lennox Lewis, and Manny Pacquiao. The auction has already raised over £11,000, with predictions of donations increasing.

Though he is proud of his collection, Horne has decided to auction most items, to ensure they are cherished and to support charitable causes. Some memorabilia, including a signed Tommy McLean shirt from the 1972 European Cup final, remains in his personal collection, which also features items signed by Rangers legends like Sandy Jardine.

Horne reflects on his football journey, recalling trials at Celtic, matches against top European clubs, and friendship with Rangers players. Despite setbacks in his playing career, he emphasizes the importance of hard work and resilience, qualities that have propelled his business forward also.