Memorial Day 2016
For years
now....County supporters have taken part
in one of those original and distinctively heart warming events, that just
screams `Only at Stockport County'.
The last
Friday before the first match of every season ...organised by Ian
Lancashire....County supporters meet up at the Royal Scot in Marple Bridge to
honour all supporters who are sadly no longer able to don the blue and white
and cheer their team on.
Early shot outside the Royal Scot |
The itinerary
is a simple one...meet at the pub from around 12.00.......toast the deceased
fans( circa 2.30)with the uniquely challenging mix of Rum and whisky.....head
off to the graveside of John Hall ( The Captain) in the nearby church yard to
lay a wreath.....and salute not only John but all County supporters ,players and
officials no longer with us !
Today was no
exception and the first arrivals were seated outside the pub well before noon.
First comers. |
Not long
after this Caz turned up with the wreath from the Supporters Cooperative, as
slowly the numbers started to build.
Caz Burt with the Supporters Cooperative Wreath. |
Amongst the
numbers today was, County Mascot Peggy
the piglet, accompanied by Steve Bellis County's Special Adviser to the Club Board,
and it was great to see them both again.
Peggy and Steve Bellis. |
All the 90
who turned out were required to sign the book of condolence, and this next
photo verifies that Lancs and SB saw to it that Peggy conformed to this County
tradition!
Peggy about to sign..... |
Circa 2.30
and the annual salute to those passed took place inside the Royal Scot with
glasses being raised to the accompaniment of a rousing rendition of the County
Anthem.
A rousing salute ! |
Job
done......every one set to go home?
......Not a bit of it as the whole party set off up the nearby hill to
the graveside of The Captain.
It was quite
a slog but no one ducked the challenge, although some chose the easier gate
entrance rather than climbing the wall, but nuff said of that!
That hill ! |
Arrival at
John's graveside was a suitably solemn occasion.
A few moments of contemplation
were followed by some suitable words in tribute
from Pete and Ged .
Then a
candle was lit , followed by a minutes silence nicely observed by all!
Peggy
meanwhile....not well versed in etiquette ....or County tradition...made an
unscheduled contribution....
It was time
to drift on back to the Royal Scot around 3 o'clock and for the proceedings to
continue.
I drifted
off to start this report, but I am guessing others are still there now.
IO County !
Ian Brown
Additional
Gallery:-
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