Shots Fans Step In To Help

Last updated : 06 September 2011 By The Shots Trust

Tom and Sue Clare are Manchester United season ticket holders but will be experiencing the delights of the EBB Stadium after a magnificent gesture from supporters.

The story emanates from the UEFA Champions League Final that was played at Wembley in May.

Mark Taylor, matchday announcer for the club, explains, "This is a unique story really. I was in London on the eve of the Champions League Final watching the game in a pub. London was absolutely packed on the evening.

"About 15 minutes into the game a elderly couple caught my eye coming through the door. The lady was clearly upset and shaken with her husband holding her. I went over and asked if they were ok and they were clearly distressed.

"They explained to me that they had been robbed at the entrance to Wembley as they were waiting to go in. Their tickets had been stolen. Whilst they reported the incident very little could be done.

"Their story disturbed me and I wanted to do something for them. I contacted Manchester United and although helpful they said the game was under Uefa organisation so there was very little they could do.

"I decided to put the story on Shotsweb, the Aldershot Town fans forum site. The reaction was fantastic. A group called "Fans Matter" was set up and £350 was raised by the group. Originally we bid to enter the draw for the shorts sponsorship. We didn't win that but part of the deal was that two tickets would be provided for the Hospitality lounge for a match during the season.

"I contacted the group to see if they would be willing to donate the two tickets to Tom and Sue. They unanimously agreed wanting to show the caring side from an npower League 2 club.

"I phoned the couple in Manchester and they were over the moon. The Holiday Inn in Farnborough are putting Tom and Sue up for the night and another generous Aldershot Town fan is paying for their evening meal."