Archive Search Page

Andrew Tomlinson (right) and Peter Fothergill with Keith McNee (left). A previously unpublished image.

"A Great Day, despite Burnley losing two points they should have had." That's how 15-year-old Burnley Grammar School pupil Andrew Tomlinson of Linton Drive, summed up his trip to Watford on Saturday, 20th November 1071, as our guest, having won the VIP soccer contest with an all-correct entry. The result couldn't put a damper on the day for Andrew and for 15-year-old Peter Fothergill, who went with him, VIP's all the way, as the winner of the Nelson Leader contest.

Andrew and Peter left the area at 7.30 on Saturday, being taken by road to Preston with Express Sports editor Keith McNee and photographer Ron Rennell. They went by train first-class to Watford and after being entertained to lunch went on to the Caledonian Hotel where the Burnley team and officials had stayed since Friday evening. Burnley manager Jimmy Adamson met the boys on arrival and they were immediately taken to the hotel conference room where they talked to all the players along with trainer Brian Miller and physiotherapist Jimmy Holland. Andrew and Peter were introduced to chairman Bob Lord and Dr Iven, who invited them to the match as personal guests of Burnley and gave them tickets for the directors' box. At Watford's Vicarage Road ground manager Mr George Kirby was waiting to show the boys "behind the scenes." Then, proudly wearing claret and blue scarves, Andrew and Peter were taken into the vice-presidents' lounge and finally into the directors' box to watch the game. After the match they joined the same Train as the players at Watford Station and had dinner with them as it sped back to Preston through a blizzard.

Next Saturday is a big day for VIP contest runner-up Stephen Johnson of Croasdale Avenue. He wins a stand ticket for the Swindon match and an invitation to the dressing room. Third prizewinner, Raymond Scouce of Holbeck Street wins a visit to Gawthorpe where, if he wishes, he can join the Clarets in training.