Leamington branch celebrates 50th birthday
In the past, I've always looked forward to any interaction with the Leamington Spa supporters’ club, due to the incredible warmth and passion of long-time secretary Norma Worton.
The branch was at Old Trafford for Sunday's match with Liverpool to mark 50 years of its existence and Norma – who ‘retired’ from active service a couple of years ago – was present to celebrate the momentous anniversary.
A delegation from the spa town – which is situated in Warwickshire, just 10 miles from our Emirates FA Cup semi-final opponents, Coventry City – were invited pitchside before the 2-2 draw against Jurgen Klopp's team, and received a special shirt courtesy of club legend Bryan Robson.
It was just recognition for our one of most dedicated branches, which has been steadfast in its support since 1974.
A delegation from the spa town – which is situated in Warwickshire, just 10 miles from our Emirates FA Cup semi-final opponents, Coventry City – were invited pitchside before the 2-2 draw against Jurgen Klopp's team, and received a special shirt courtesy of club legend Bryan Robson.
It was just recognition for our one of most dedicated branches, which has been steadfast in its support since 1974.
“I started going on the coach in 1978, when Norma was running it, so I've known her since then,” recalled Jon White, who has taken over responsibility as secretary of the group.
“They [Norma and her husband] were trying to get to the 50th themselves, but Norma is getting on and had had enough of it. She was going to fold it, but I just said I'd carry it on and see how we'd go.
“The branch is thriving to be fair,” he continues. “We've got 170-odd members, plus season-ticket holders on top of that. So we're going alright. But our trouble at the moment is just getting enough tickets, because sometimes we haven't got enough to fill a coach.”
“They [Norma and her husband] were trying to get to the 50th themselves, but Norma is getting on and had had enough of it. She was going to fold it, but I just said I'd carry it on and see how we'd go.
“The branch is thriving to be fair,” he continues. “We've got 170-odd members, plus season-ticket holders on top of that. So we're going alright. But our trouble at the moment is just getting enough tickets, because sometimes we haven't got enough to fill a coach.”
A couple of years back, our matchday programme United Review spoke to Norma as she reflected on her decades of service to her fellow Reds.
“It's been a big part of my life and I've got a lot out of it,” she explained. “There have been so many highlights and I’ve made so many fabulous friends.
“When we were relegated [in 1974], I remember talking to Paddy Crerand and said: ‘I'll promise you now: every game you play in the lower division, I will be there with you. And he said: 'Norma, with fans like you, we can't go wrong.’ ”
Reds at the match
GalleryCan you spot yourself in our crowd gallery from United’s meeting with Liverpool?
Worton may now have handed on the baton to Jon, but Sunday's show of support from Leamington made it very clear that the area's backing for United remains strong.
Reaching 50 years is an incredible achievement, and we hope that there are many more happy memories to be made for everyone involved with this most devoted supporters' club.
Happy anniversary to all at MUSC Leamington Spa!
Reaching 50 years is an incredible achievement, and we hope that there are many more happy memories to be made for everyone involved with this most devoted supporters' club.
Happy anniversary to all at MUSC Leamington Spa!
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