Wednesday 10 January 2024
NEXT HOME GAME: Walsall – Saturday 13 January, 3pm
NEXT AWAY GAME: Notts County – Saturday 20 January, 3pm
NOTTS COUNTY COACHES:
Bredbury Con Club: 10.30am – £20 – bookings can be made in the Con Club County Coaches group on Facebook
Crofter: 11am – £20 (adults) and £16 (under-14s) – text Steve on 07983 580582 or message Crofter Coaches on Facebook
Fingerpost: FULL
If you’d like to write an article for The Scarf My Father Wore, share a few snippets or photos, or advertise your business, please email thescarfmyfatherwore@substack.com.
Dear County fans, Stopfordians, and anyone else joining us today, a very warm welcome to your Wednesday edition of The Scarf My Father Wore, with (Super) Odin Bailey now a permanent County player! A much-needed boost ahead of a crucial game at home to Walsall on Saturday.
We’ve got another instalment of our ‘Meet the Subscribers’ series for you today, as Matt Allen takes us back to Maine Road, Wembley and Nuneaton. If you’d like to feature at some point, drop me a message.
Today’s edition is sponsored by Stockport Hero Hire, joining The Scarf My Father Wore family as one of our brand new advertisers in 2024. A huge thank you to Johnny, who transforms into Spider-Man and puts a big smile on everyone’s face at various gatherings, from children’s parties to corporate events. Give him a call on 07753 275408 or email heroes@stockportherohire.co.uk if you’re planning a party or special event this year.
Finally, I’m currently walking every street in Stockport to raise money for mental health charity Mentell. If you’d like to make a donation to help me reach my target, please click here.
Total distance so far: 46.68 miles
Total steps so far: 83,302
Total raised so far: £1,037
Total completed streets so far: 24 (Click here for the full list, which includes reports and photos from every day of the walk.)
Further information on the walk can be found by clicking here.
Des Junior
Do you enjoy your daily dose of The Scarf My Father Wore? If you do, please consider joining our paid subscribers. It’s £5 a month, or £45 for the year, which will enable us to grow the website with even more articles, photos and interviews.
A huge thank you to each and every one of the following paid subscribers for their support.
Jeremy Axten / Nick Babrovskie / Jonathan Baker / Andy Baldwin / Mike Bell / Kelvin Briggs / Ian Brown / Bob Carey / James Farrar / Steven Hargreaves / Steve Jones / David Laycock / Keith Mills / Kev Richardson / Ben Roach / David Shasha / Peter Snape / John Snellgrove / Mike Wilson
34-year-old Matt Allen, or “Dids” as he’s also known, works as an accountant for a property developer. He’s married, and lives in Marple.
Favourite thing about The Scarf My Father Wore?
The variety of different articles, County related or not. Makes me laugh on my train to and from work.
Where do you normally read your daily dose of The Scarf My Father Wore?
On the train!
How or why did you become a County fan?
Dad took me along. He hadn’t been a County fan until the Danny Bergara revolution (sadly he was a Red before then). My first game was in 1995-96, against Chesterfield I think.
What does Stockport County mean to you?
It’s such a cliche but it’s quality time I get to spend with my dad and brother which you wouldn’t get without following County. I’ve also got a load of mates who follow County so more often than not we’re out for beers and food before and after the game.
Where do you sit inside EP?
LT3.
Who else is in your usual County matchday crew?
Before the game my mate Bernard, at the game my dad and brother, and usually Bernard after the game with a few of the others from the Mad Hatters WhatsApp group.
Who is your favourite ever County player?
Alun Armstrong as a kid, more recently Ben Hinchliffe.
Worst ever player?
John Rooney.
Favourite current player?
Big Ben.
Who is your favourite ever County manager?
The King, Jim Gannon.
Best atmosphere you’ve experienced watching County?
Bolton in the FA Cup or the Dinning game at Maine Road.
Favourite ever game?
Nuneaton away or Rochdale at Wembley.
Worst ever game?
Chorley away. I genuinely thought we’d fucked it up.
Favourite ever goal?
Gleeson at Wycombe.
If you could play in an exact moment from County’s history, which would it be?
The 2-1 at Maine Road, just after Dinning scored.
What is the biggest sacrifice you have ever made to get to a match?
Missed an exam in my first year of uni and had to resit in the summer to go to Wembley (it’s crazy that there was an exam on Bank Holiday Monday).
What’s the funniest thing you’ve seen at the match?
Kenny Boxshall’s commentary of the runaway dog on the pitch.
Favourite matchday boozer?
The Magnet or Bask.
Favourite matchday tipple?
Beer, usually an IPA.
Favourite County song?
“After the turn of the century…”
Worst County song?
Any of the “der der der” nonsense.
What do you like the most about Edgeley Park?
I’d say the atmosphere but it’s been crap since the National League North days. Currently the County Courtyard.
Best thing about being a County fan?
Being with friends and family, together as one.
Worst thing about being a County fan?
Being crap for most of the time I’ve supported them.
Most despised rival club?
Citeh. Horrible, horrible club and fans.
Most despised rival player?
Peter Ndlovu. Don’t know why, but as a kid I hated him as he always seemed to play well against us for the Brummies.
Do you collect any County/football related memorabilia?
Nope.
Any chance encounters with County players?
I drink with Steve Bullock in The Ladybrook. Seen Jim in The Spice Room in Bramhall a couple of times.
Have you ever decked an opposing fan?
Not yet…
If you could invite any five people round for a chippy tea, who would it be?
The National League North stalwarts: Sammy, Ben, Keano, Ash and Jim.
Tell us something impressive about yourself without sounding stupid.
I once competed in the National Hen Racing Championship in Derbyshire with one of my parents’ chickens. (Didn’t win.)
Can you play football to any sort of standard?
I play five-a-side twice a week. Used to do alright in Sunday League as a goal-poacher.
Describe a perfect day.
Waking up in the Maldives, light breakfast, sunbathing and snorkelling, meal on the beach. Just describing my honeymoon from last year basically.
Anything you’d like to say to finish?
Keep up the good work with the website and let’s hope we’re celebrating the title in North Wales in a few months.
And finally, here’s a few of Matt’s favourite things…
TV programme: The Simpsons.
Film: Terminator 2.
City: Munich.
Food: Tapas or Indian.
Drink: Beer in the pub, a cup of tea at home.
Book: Bob Mortimer’s novel, The Satsuma Complex.
Band: Bowling For Soup.
Click on the links below to read our previous interviews with The Scarf My Father Wore subscribers.
Matthew Ashmore / John K Bilsbury / Phil Brennan / Bob Carey / Graham Hall / Des Hinks Junior / Jack Isherwood / Peter Jaquiss / Nick Lee
A few words from Spider-Man!
Established in 2022 by ex-British gymnast Johnny Brown, Stockport Hero Hire have a mission to bring joy, excitement and an authentic superhero experience to every event. Whatever the occasion you’re planning, whether it’s a children’s party, christening, naming ceremony, bar mitzvah or corporate event, Stockport Hero Hire are ready to make it an unforgettable experience.
Having competed in gymnastics since the age of four and reaching British Championship level, Johnny noticed a gap in the market and set up the business performing as Spider-Man in 2022. Initially offering bespoke services tailored to each individual party, Stockport Hero Hire packages have now been defined to include a visit in full superhero costume, high level interaction and engagement, acrobatics, flips, tricks and handstand walking over the children with games, pictures, video opportunities and superhero training. Visits can be 30 minutes, 45 minutes, an hour, or two hours or more.
“Our aim is to provide an exciting, engaging, authentic superhero experience for any event we attend,” explains Johnny.
“When booked for a child’s birthday party, the expression on their face when they meet our heroes truly makes this job worthwhile. The goal is for them to leave feeling like they have met their hero, making memories to last. The feedback we receive from customers shows that we are consistently managing to achieve that. Families are trusting our brand to make their special day one to remember for all the right reasons and the reviews speak for themselves. We have also noticed an increase in repeat bookings for children and siblings, which is positive and shows how we have influenced their event.
“Over the past 18 months the business has steadily increased with more and more customers booking with us. As it stands we have over 50 five-star reviews on Facebook and we cover the entire Greater Manchester area. 2024 is already shaping up to be an exciting year with plenty of events booked in the diary. We also have plans to expand by offering more superheroes and additional entertainment services.”
Here’s a selection of reviews taken from the Stockport Hero Hire Facebook page.
“Absolutely brilliant! A visit from Spider-Man made our son’s 5th birthday party so special. The children were in awe of him and the parents enjoyed it too! From flips, tricks, presenting the cake and playing with them for an hour, everyone throughly enjoyed it and I would recommend it to any little superhero fan. Thank you so much Johnny!”
“Wow wow wow, what an amazing experience for our little boy’s 3rd birthday. Five stars! Spider-Man met us at the trampoline park where he bounced, played and entertained the kids with such enthusiasm and friendliness. There were obviously a lot of other children from other parties there who wanted to see the main man too and he dealt with this so well, he said hi to them so as not to disappoint but made a point of following the birthday boy around the trampoline area as he wished making a huge fuss of him and his friends. Would highly recommend this experience to any Spider-Man fans, he’s fantastic. Thank you for making our little boy’s (and in turn our) day so unforgettable.”
“We hired Spider-Man for my son’s 5th birthday, and he was fantastic from his entrance to exit! He engaged so well with all the children, and made my son feel special on his birthday getting a visit from the 'real' Spider-Man. He entertained with amazing tricks, and was led by what the children wanted to do. We highly recommend, thank you so much Johnny.”
“If I could give more than five stars I would! Such a wonderful addition to our son’s 4th birthday party as a surprise! The kids and adults loved it. He did flips and trips over the kids and engaged with them so well. The little things made all the difference, like a party card for our son and we noticed he even tucked the little girls’ dresses under their legs before doing tricks over them for their modesty. Will definitely recommend to everyone who wants a Spidey visit! Thank you so much Johnny for making our son’s birthday so special.”
“I honestly can’t recommend this company enough. I originally met Spider-Man at my niece’s party, and my children thought he was amazing. My youngest son required some tests at the hospital. He has autism and I knew this would be a traumatic experience for him. I messaged and requested a video message as a little bit of support from Spider-Man. With only a day’s notice and not something they’d ever done, they sent the perfect message making my little boy’s day a much easier one. Amazing company and even more amazing people. Thank you.”
As you can see, Stockport Hero Hire are your go-to superhero entertainment company, who will truly make your event a special one that won’t be forgotten in a hurry.
Visit stockportherohire.co.uk for further details.
Photo of the day
A long, long time ago in Crewe
One of our paid subscribers, Kelvin Briggs, sent us an email this week, showing his great grandad being awarded the freedom of the Borough of Crewe.
“Maybe we should petition for Crewe player Joe White to be given the award following his goal at Mansfield on Saturday,” added Kelvin!
Today in SK
🍺 Food and drink
Whether you like it hot or cold, head down to Coffee Block (SK1) to get your matcha fix. 8am - 5.30pm.
The Nelson Tavern (SK1) have a great range of offers throughout the week, including £4.50 for drinks off the Doubles Bar, a comprehensive range of shots for £2, and 3 for £6 on Jägerbombs. 12pm - 11pm.
For those on a gluten-free diet, finding a nice portion of fish and chips to tuck into can be quite difficult. But on a Wednesday at Fishers of Cheshire (SK2), gluten-free meals are available. 11.30am - 2pm, 4pm - 9.30pm.
Any pizza and two drinks for £14.95 at Platform 5 (SK8). 12pm - 8pm.
Treat yourself to lunch at Mediterranean Cafe & Bar (SK23). A full range of mains, salads, jacket potatoes, paninis, baguettes and wraps. 10am - 10pm.
❓ Quiz nights
Bask (SK1). The first Baskmaster of the year. Prizes include £250 cash, £30 bar tab and gig tickets! Maximum of six players in a team. Hosted by Sophie Sveinsson from Radio X. 7.30pm. Tickets £4.
Enigma (SK1). 8pm. (And there’s a 10% discount on all drinks!)
Flying Coach (SK7). 9pm. Free entry. Chicken wings for just 25p.
The Scarf My Father Wore works closely with venues on a daily basis to bring you the most comprehensive guide to all of the best offers and events taking place across the whole SK region. Click on the links below for full details of everything taking place in your area over the next few weeks.
SK1 / SK2 / SK3 / SK4 / SK5 / SK6 / SK7 / SK8 / SK9 / SK10 / SK11 / SK12 / SK13 / SK14 / SK15 / SK16 / SK17 / SK22 / SK23
Random County fan of the day #10 – Cashy!
One final thing before you go… if you’re looking to learn to drive in January, or lose a few pounds after Christmas, or even get some work done at home, please contact our fantastic advertisers!
🎨 Art & Gifts: Kate O’Brien Art
💈 Barber: STUDIO26 Haircare
🪟 Blinds & Shutters: Bauhaus Blinds & Shutters
📚 Bookkeeping: Eleven Accounts Services Ltd
🍰 Cake Maker: Claire Green Bespoke Cakes and Catering
🧽 Car Valeting: Rub A Dubz Detailing Ltd
🧼 Carpet Cleaning: Pro Clean Carpet Services
🏠 Carpets & Flooring: Kingsway Carpets & Rugs Ltd
🐈⬛ Cat Sitting: The Crazy Cat Ladies Cheshire
👶 Child Health: The Sleep Nanny
🤹♀️ Children’s Entertainment: Stockport Hero Hire
🧹 Cleaning: Beespoke Cleaning
🚙 Coatings: Colourtone Ltd
🦮 Dog Training: Paws High Peak Dog Training
🚘 Driving School: CFN School of Motoring
💷 Financial Services: The Mortgage Mill
🔥 Fire Protection: Radial Fire And Security Limited
🍸 Gin: Hatters Gin
🛁 Grout Refresh & Recolour: GroutGleam Stockport
💇♀️ Hairdressing: C West Hairstylist
🛠 Home Improvements: Menzies Develop & Build
💻 IT Services: Bridge Computer Services
🪚 Joinery: SAW Contracts Ltd
👨🍳 Kitchen Appliances: SW Appliances
🔑 Locksmith: APL Locksmiths Ltd
🚐 Minibus Hire: Westfield Minibuses
🧤 Oven Cleaning: That Oven Girl
🖌 Painter & Decorator: BGM Decorators
🧱 Plasterer: Tate Plastering Services
🚰 Plumber: GTG Gary the Gasman
📕 Publishing: Victor Publishing
🛖 Roofing: ADM Roofing Services Ltd
☀️ Solar Panels: Malbern Solar Ltd
⚽️ Sports Coaching: UK Sports Coaching Ltd
🖊 Tattooist: Heatons Tattoo Club
🪵 Timber Supplies: Portwood Timber Division of Illingworth Ingham (Manchester) Ltd
👨💻 Web Design: SITEZO
⚖️ Weight Loss: Slimming World Reddish & Bredbury with Shlean
🪟 Window Cleaner: R ‘N’ B Window Cleaning
🏋️♀️ Women’s Fitness: Sophie Pavey Fitness
🧘♀️ Yoga: Greenshoots Yoga