MDCCCLXVI, on Mar 2 2010, 06:47 PM, said:
Dunno if this has been discussed before, but has anyone been lined up to open the new ground?
And if not, who do Town fans think it should be?
I guess it's customary to invite some dignitary like that Peregrine, Chatsworth House, 'have you seen the size of my fountain?' bloke to do the honours: but what right does some upper class toff, who's probably never been to a game or given a s**t about Town, have to perform such a once in a lifetime ceremony?
I'd have a real problem with that.
What's more i don't believe anyone from the town's political fraternity should be 'blessed' with such a prestigious role (infact i'd ban the bandwaggon jumping lot of 'em from the gig altogether!), or one of Bazza's mates from the local Masonic Lodge, either. And whilst i'm sure those that gush with gratitude towards the Chairman and the Owner (who can at least claim to've funded the build) will disagree, i'd suggest that one or both of them doing the deed would be inappropriate as in the full scheme of things they are but custodians of the Club.
Opinions of Barry Hubbard are split amongst Town fans now, and who's to say how Dave Allen will be judged in years to come?
No; what we need is a truly legendary figure, someone associated with CFC but also venerated in wider circles, an individual that transcends politics and short term issues, and a person that each and every Cestrefeldian, whether fans of the Club or not, can respect and applaud.
Ladies and Gentlemen, i give you Gordon Banks.
After all, just how many football clubs can call upon a World Cup winner and former player to cut the ribbon to their new stadium?
Together with a bronze bust, I agree Chris that would be a wonderful choice but lets invite Bob Wilson,Oggie, John Osborne, Jim Brown, Alan Stevenson also