RANGERS have kick-started the summer redevelopment of Ibrox by replacing the panels on the Broomloan Stand and Copland Stand.

Funds raised through the Rangers Pools, which was relaunched at the start of the campaign, are set aside for the upkeep and improvement of the stadium.

The Rangers Youth Development Company have handed over £20,000 for the panelling as renovation works are stepped up during the close season.

More than £8million has been injected into the Academy system since 2002 and Light Blues legend and Evening Times columnist Derek Johnstone was on hand to lend his support on Thursday.

Colin Stewart, Director of Operations at RYDC, commented: “The Rangers Youth Development Company is delighted to donate £20,000 to the club for this essential work in the Copland Road and Broomloan Road stands.

“I thank all the fans who have signed up for Rangers Pools so far, your participation has allowed us to give the club this generous sum and we have further Pools profits set aside for other work which we will confirm shortly.

“Thanks also to Derek for his support today, it is greatly appreciated.”