Last few chances to see the Stagecoach Stand!
MAKE SURE to take up the chance to go on a tour of St James Park before it gets a new look next season!With the development of St James Park preparing to take place during the off-season, just a few chances remain to take a behind-the-scenes look at one of British football's most historic stands.
Tours are absolutely free, and places can be booked by contacting club reception.
Andy Bratt, one of the volunteers who provides the tours of St James Park, said:
"On Saturday there were three groups of fans who made the effort to get along for an extra early 10am start. A group of friends from North Devon with their lads, one of whom is playing with the Southampton Development squad; Then we had a young man named Harry, who is just starting to do some regular volunteering at the club, and he came with his father and brother. Finally, there were brothers Ryan and Scott, and Ryan’s wife had bought them tickets for the game as her Valentine’s present!
"The group, as usual, got on really well and enjoyed looking around the changing rooms, the treatment room, the security centre, the dugouts, and other aspects of our historic 1926 wooden grandstand before heading back to the Main Grandstand and the trophy cabinet. Due to the early kick-off, the Boardroom was already busy by the time we got there and we thought we would have to give it a miss. But matchday volunteer Nigel Parker invited us in, and we were really warmly welcomed by Steve Perryman and Laurence Overend. Earlier Paul Tisdale had gone out of his way to come over and say hello and pose for photos - although these kind of chance encounters can’t be guaranteed – each tour is different!
"Trust members organise and lead the tours. The four regular guides are Martin Weiler, Bernadette Coates, Dave Luxton and Andy Bratt. However they wouldnt be possible without the support of club staff and matchday volunteers. Over the years we are so grateful to Andy Gillard for helping us every way he can."