IT'S been some debut season for Hereford FC. From the tragedy of the old United being run into the ground in 2014, to Sunday when the new Bulls went to Wembley for the FA Vase final – it's been some journey.
For our Fan of the Year, that weekly journey to Edgar Street and all other grounds Peter Beadle's Midland League champions have travelled to this season comes with its difficulties.
Bob Panter, who nominated Will Chaundy for this award, explains: “Will lives in Malvern and has cerebral palsy. Because he has no transport, he has to catch a train to every game, but he's only missed one game at home this season, and that was because it was his mum's birthday party.
“For home games, he walks a mile to catch a train from Malvern and then another mile from the station at the other end to get to Edgar Street. Understandably, given his condition, some days he finds walking difficult.
“At one game over the Christmas period when no trains were running, he got a lift to Hereford at nine o'clock in the morning and had to wait around till three o'clock kick-off time…then start worrying about how he was going to get home after the final whistle.
“He is a true fan. Some games he has not been well, but it's not stopped him coming. He hates it when people feel sorry for him.
“We all know how much he loves Hereford, and every week he buys tickets for the draw, always promising that if he wins, he will give it back to the club.
“He loves Non-League football in general though – going to watch Bromsgrove, Drotwich and Malvern, who are local teams for him, on a regular basis. He is so knowledgeable about the game and always sees the funny side of life. He's a joy to sit next to.”
After collecting his award at Stamford Bridge, Will beamed: “I'm shocked to have won the award but I'm delighted. Just having the experience is amazing.
“When I got the invitation in the post, I phoned my brother and neither of us could believe it. I didn't understand it to start with but it has been a wonderful afternoon.
“It's the first time I've been to a Premier League ground. Thank you. It's been amazing.”
