We’re proud to announce the launch of the Notts County Memory Club, a project which will encourage former players to meet at Meadow Lane and reminisce over their days in black and white.
The initiative takes inspiration from the likes of Rotherham United, whose well-established Memory Club was recently attended by our all-time leading goalscorer Les Bradd along with his ex-Notts and Rotherham team-mate Dave Watson.
Bradd said: “Dave, as many of our fans will be aware, started his playing career at Notts and in recent years has been living with dementia.
“He thoroughly enjoys his visits to Rotherham’s Memory Club, which have been the catalyst for a vast improvement in his wellbeing.
“Like Dave, I loved having the opportunity to catch up with some of my playing colleagues – so much so that I was compelled to help introduce something similar at Notts.
“Our CEO, Joe Palmer, has been hugely supportive and I’m delighted to say that our first Memory Club session will take place later this month.
“Those who’ll be in attendance include John Barnwell, Alan Hill and former players Ian Richardson, Dave Watson, Ray O’Brien, Brian Stubbs, Mick Rose, Gary Lund, Don Masson, Jason Lee, Mick Sommers, Seamus 'Jim' McDonagh and Bobby Tait.
“They will be joined by club representatives past and present, including Rev. Liam O’Boyle, honorary historian Mick Chappell and former media man Terry Bowles.
“John Breckin, who was pivotal in the launch of Rotherham’s Memory Club, also plans to attend, while the PFA’s David Ryan and Penny Watson will be accompanied by Dawn Astle, daughter of Jeff, who is a leading campaigner on the link between heading footballs and health issues.
“If any former players or officials from the club’s past are interested in finding out more information, they can email me at les.bradd@nottscountyfc.co.uk.”
Palmer added: “As the world’s oldest professional club we have a duty to explore every opportunity to celebrate our incredible history and those who have contributed to it.
“As part of this, we want to ensure our former players maintain a close relationship with the club and are made to feel welcome on matchdays and at other events.
“The Memory Club presents us with a wonderful opportunity to bring an array of past figures together at Meadow Lane, sparking conversations and reigniting memories that may otherwise be lost.
“I’d like to thank Les for all his hard work on the project so far and we look forward to hosting regular club meetings in the future.”
