PGSA Visit to Preston North End – February 21st 2010

On a cold winter Sunday, in spite of a bitter wind and frequent flurries of snow, 32 hardy souls, mainly from the Association, assembled in the National Football Museum. Trevor Sergeant, who had arranged the visit, divided the group into two smaller parties, each of which was led by a member of the Museum Staff on a conducted tour of the ground.

Most of those present had followed the fortunes of North End since their youth. Some were current season ticket holders and others were occasional visitors to Deepdale. Some had relatives who had been closely connected with the Club – one had a relative who had been a distinguished groundsman in the forties and fifties in the days when the ground was prevented from freezing by having lighted braziers on metal sheets; another had a relative who had been a Director; yet another had a father who used to supply the all-important half-time pies.

The guides were excellent. Not only were they extremely knowledgeable, but they imparted information in a brisk and friendly manner. They were approachable and patiently answered all questions without ever being patronising. The tour took us to parts of the ground that we had never seen. It was interesting to note the many differences between the Home and Away changing rooms in terms of space and facilities, and our minds drifted back to the facilities we knew down by the river at Walton. We were not allowed on the pitch because it was cosily wrapped what was really a very large duvet, but we did get a sight of the impressive accommodation on the East side of the ground, and we revelled in the opportunity of going in the Directors’ Box and actually sitting in Sir Tom Finney’s seat. On our way back to the Museum, we visited the police section, and several had their photos taken in the cells.

It was then time for a delicious pie and a welcome hot drink. Most thought that this was the end of matters and represented tremendous value for the £2.50 we were charged. However, it turned out to be half time and one of the guides, Dave, took about a dozen of the party on a tour of the Football Museum. Whether this was planned, or an impromptu gesture, was not clear, but it was most enjoyable and we were very grateful because it provided us with the opportunity of visiting this splendid museum for what is likely to be the last time before it moves to Manchester. Whatever the rights and wrongs over closing the Grammar School, there is still some pain for those who went there, and, even after almost half a century, we still look back with nostalgia. The tour of the excellent National Football Museum served as a poignant reminder of what a wonderful facility is about to be lost.

The visit was a huge success and everyone enjoyed the tour. We enjoyed exploring areas of Deepdale that we had never seen and learning things about the Club, its history and organisation that we did not know, despite our association with North End over many years, and we are extremely grateful to the guides who showed us round.

Finally, we are indebted to Trevor Sergeant for masterminding such a splendid event which provided an opportunity for our Members to meet together in such interesting surroundings.

Tony Olivine

PNE Visit 21st Feb 2010