So what do you do then?
#1 Nick Clarke, Disability Liaison Officer
Thursday 5 October 2023
Dear County fans, Stopfordians, and anyone else joining us today, a very warm welcome to your Thursday edition of The Scarf My Father Wore.
I’m excited to share the first part of a new series with you today, which should be a lot of fun over the next few weeks, or at the very least something to pass the time on your daily commute.
Now, we all know that Louie Barry sits defenders on their arse, and that Ben Hinchliffe saves penalties, and that Tanto makes Welshmen cry. But do you know exactly what County’s off-the-pitch team do? There’s 61 different names listed on the contacts page on the club’s official website, from Stotty at the top to Kenny B at the mic, and I thought it’d be interesting to have a chat with some of them to delve a little deeper into their roles, as well as the important stuff like what they have for lunch. Nick Clarke joins us today to kick off the series.
Today’s edition is sponsored by Portwood Timber. A big thank you to Lucinda and all the team.
Finally, I’m starting my charity walk in the next few days, walking every street in Stockport to raise money for men’s mental health charity Mentell. If you’d like to make a donation to help me reach my target, please click here.
Further information on the walk can be found by clicking here.
Des Junior
What did you do before your role at County?
I’ve been addicted to County since I was 8, when I used to attend matches on a Friday night with my dad, my grandad, and a pocketful of Victory V’s or Uncle Luke’s. But when I was 16, I actually made County’s reserve side. I was a shop worker at the time, which fitted in nicely with our training regimes and matchdays. I later secured a role in telecoms law as a wayleave officer until my severe stroke in 2012.
How many hours a week do you work at the club?
Well it’s meant to be just matchdays, but given my name is out there, I get emails and calls during the week, which I don’t mind because it fits in with my charity work for Stroke Information. A typical week could involve the aftermath of a game, with supporters’ queries or lost property. I also deal with fans wishing to have guided tours and arranging for signed items to be sent. Then there’s questions and ticket enquiries regarding upcoming games, as well as looking at ways we can improve the matchday experience for all fans – home, away, and impartial too.
What would be your dream job in the future?
Without being corny, I’ve got my dream job. I’m still involved with County and as someone who was extremely close to dying 11 years ago, the work that I do with Stroke Information provides real hope to others from someone who’s lived through that experience.
What school did you go to? What were you like?
My primary school was Chapel Street in Hazel Grove, before going to Hazel Grove High School, and then the Open University. I was football football football, watching and playing. If I wasn’t watching I’d be in the street playing wally or on the local field.
What did you want to be when you were a kid?
A footballer obviously, and a good one at that. Someone once said they had never witnessed a better left-footer. I think they’re still on the medication now.
How do you get to work in the morning, and what’s your favourite radio/podcast for the journey?
I actually work from home most of the time. But when I travel in the car, it’s the radio, or a podcast on my phone if I’m on the train.
What do you wear to work?
Usually a County polo, black trousers, black shoes and a County jacket or coat with the trusted hi-vis (even though ‘liaison’ hasn’t been spelt correctly for the last two seasons!).
What’s the best thing about working at County?
The fans and the atmosphere. I’m just very lucky to be a part of it.
What’s the toughest part of your job?
Listening to Lando! No, I’d say people’s misconceptions regarding a stroke and the very busy role as a DLO, although it can be very satisfying when the work you do is acknowledged.
What’s your favourite part of Edgeley Park?
The buzz in the offices; the team behind the team.
What’s your go-to food and drink on your lunch hour?
I’m partial to a good cuppa. I don’t really do lunch, but I do like pasta and pizza.
Describe your perfect day off.
Spending time with my family and my gorgeous grandson.
Do you remember any funny/memorable moments from previous County staff nights out or parties?
It wasn’t a night out, but I think my funniest memory goes back to the 80s when I was playing for the reserves. We got together one Tuesday night, stripped and ready, but the gaffer Asa Hartford wasn’t happy. It was about 6.30pm and he was pacing up and down the corridor, constantly looking at his watch and cursing Elvis, otherwise known as the legendary Frank Worthington.
At about 6.50pm the wooden double doors burst open and there was Frank in his trademark sheepskin coat with his hair slick-backed in Brylcreem.
“Sorry gaffer the traffic on that M62 is an absolute nightmare,” he blurted out. To which the gaffer said, “No Frank you are late.”
Frank reverted by saying, “There was absolutely nothing I could do about the traffic and if I have to go as sub then I will do as my punishment.” To which Asa replied, “Frank, you don’t understand, it’s Tuesday, we played on Friday.”
If you could swap jobs with any celebrity in the world, who would it be? The only caveat is that you’ve got to choose someone who you think could handle your role as Disability Liaison Officer.
Peter Kay probably.
Have you ever told a little white lie on your CV…
No, as the truth always comes out.
What do you think your job is like today, compared to how it would have been in 1883 when County were formed?
In 1883, I doubt there would have been a DLO, as disability has only really been acknowledged in more modern times. People with disabilities in times gone by were considered outcasts.
What advice would you give to anyone wanting to be a Disability Liaison Officer when they’re older?
I’d advise them to do something else! No, in all seriousness, I would really just reiterate that the person must be compassionate and have a good understanding, as there are so many hidden disabilities these days.
What do you think you’ll do when you retire?
Some would say I have already! I’ll just continue to enjoy spending valuable time with loved ones and friends.
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Photo of the day
Edgeley Park, Stockport
A 2014-15 flashback. Don’t look at this photo before you go to bed or you’ll have nightmares. Just 2,547 in attendance that day.
Today in SK
🍽 Food and drink
Oktoberfest at Bask (SK1). Treat yourself to a stein of Dortmunder beer for £9. They’ve also got the Brighton and Liverpool matches on the big screens, as well as their resident DJ playing some tunes to take you into the weekend.
Lite bite meal deal at The Friary (SK3). Cod or haddock, served with chips, and a side of peas, curry or gravy. Plus tea or coffee. £9.95. 11.30am - 7.30pm.
Taster Thursday at TRUNK (SK7). Three tapas dishes and a glass of sangria for £20 from 5pm. Call 0161 222 9260 to book a table, and mention “The Scarf My Father Wore” to receive a 15% discount off the normal tapas menu.
🎶 Free jukebox
The Nelson Tavern (SK1). From 6.30pm.
🎱 Free pool
The George & Dragon (SK7). 6pm - 9pm.
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So having suffered a stroke myself last year at the age of 44 I find nicks work and charity inspiring. With my journey I've been so lucky that I've not really been left with any noticeable deficits. My filter of when not to say something has gone but I was never very good at that anyway.
Well done on the article the last 2 pieces on here have been great as although we are all county fans it shows that real life goes on around us.
Keep up the good work nick and des.