Nothing can unite Hatters like hero John
WHILE County fans are generally a harmonious bunch, differences of opinion have been known to occur and, on occasions, some big bust ups have broken out.
Yet there is one matter where there will always be total unanimity, and that is the supporters’ love and respect for John Fitzpatrick.
Describing John’s contribution to the County cause would fill the entire sport section of this newspaper (and more), and, even then, it would be difficult to do justice to his ability to lift the spirits of the fans with his personality and his drive.
Today’s meeting of the Co-op board, members will be asked to approve the granting of life membership to John in recognition of his commitment over many years to making life better for the club and its supporters.
Last year, Robinson’s Brewery Visitors Centre was the venue for a pre-season fans’ forum, jointly run by the club and the Co-op and there are plans to do it again this year.
The format proved very successful, helping to establish a positive rapport between the main shareholders and supporters.
The date scheduled for this year’s event is Thursday 6th August when a good attendance will be expected in anticipation of the new season.
County fans can expect to be bombarded with leaflets at the pre-season friendlies and early league games.
The Co-op board is appealing for supporters to rally round and come out in force to help with a range of important tasks on the day the Hatters Half Marathon is run – September 6th.
Having a good number of course marshals in place will be particularly important for the smooth running of the event.
Supporters can register their willingness to volunteer on the race website: hattershalf. co.uk.
Last week’s announcement that supporters will again be able to hear commentary of all County’s matches was good news all round.
Thanks to the generosity of a Newcastle- based County fan, funds will be available for Pure FM to continue their coverage and the Co- op’s charity partner, the Wellspring, will receive the commercial benefits.
It will also mean another season of the innovative arrangement which allows a County fan, nominated by the Co-op, to pick up the microphone and act as guest summariser.
Aspiring Gary Nevilles should send contact details by email to billybyrne17@gmail.com saying which game (or games) they are interested in.
The opportunity is open to all County supporters, not just Co-op members.