Memorial Day 2023

By hedgegrower - August 04, 2023

Memorial Day 2023

Supporters and representatives of Stockport County Football Club turned up in large numbers to the Royal Scot in Marple Bridge today defying weather forecasts that promised a gloomy list of possibilities ranging from merely wet to borderline deluge to pay tribute to those of the County Family who are no longer with us.

The vehicle for this worthy venture was the annual Memorial Day- another occasion birthed and organised by County supporters and supported well by the Club over the years. Dare I say the event is unique? it probably is and today`s numbers must have heartened organiser Ian Lancashire.

It was another success story and glorious confirmation that once in the County Family – you are never forgotten!

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The day started at 12 noon (when the pub opened its doors) for those early birds who had made the effort earlier than most- they are mostly covered by the images that follow.

The beer was dangerously good, and the writer was not alone in getting an early taste.

Club President Steve Bellis was first to show from the Club with former County player Paul Jones and Simon Dawson, and he was carrying a magnificent floral tribute for the ceremony later.

With no sign yet of the forecasted rain, virtually all the seats outside were occupied early with a healthy buzz of County orientated conversation engaging the interest of passing locals.

Then it was inside at 2.45 for the first of the toasts and Lancs had arranged the whisky consequently the room was soon filled with full throated salutes to departed friends from the large gathering.

It was good to see today`s gathering included the Club`s Chief Officer Tom Mahon, the Supporters Cooperative`s Independent Secretary Caroline Burt and Board Members Katye Ebbage ( see the hill)and Simon Dawson.

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So, up the hill…. there was no avoiding it and yes it was steeper than ever before but the effort was not shirked by any one as the goal was to get to the Captain`s ( John Hall) grave.

Once at the graveside Steve Bellis`s introductory remarks set the scene perfectly……

…………before Ged Gibbons followed suit lighting a candle and initiating the traditional ceremonials at the grave side.

Next up another traditional part of the Memorial Day ceremonials is that the youngest County supporters present then lay the wreath on the grave and this year the honour fell to Kimberley and Faith who performed their duties beautifully!

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The return to the Royal Scot was considerably easier on old bones as we made it back in time to again toast those no longer with us this time with rum- and it was again a heartwarming example of the County Family at its best.