Good Day

People come, people go at Bristol Rovers. Players sign, become passing stars, some become legends, even when they have long gone. Directors, some fly by night, others for the long haul. Some remain forever. The supporters.

Whilst directors usually own the bricks and mortar at football clubs, they are merely custodians. The real ownership, of the name and of the spirit, is held by the supporters. Through the wind and the rain, as the song goes, you’ll never walk alone.

One such supporter at the Rovers is one Nick Day. Successful businessman, radio broadcaster, airplane pilot and of course the voice of Bristol Rovers. Oh and all round great man, always first to give and the last to take. Always rich with praise for others, loathe to accept any for himself. Well, bad luck, Nick. Now, it’s your turn.

Who can forget Nick’s legendary catchphrase “Come on Rovers, come on you blues?” Yesterday was about much more and turns greatness into legend.

The game against Carlisle United went ahead despite the barbaric murders in Paris just the night before. As we did on 11 September 2001, when our League Cup game against Birmingham City, the game was played despite the attack on the twin towers, the terrorists did not change our way of life. But more than that, Gasheads gave genuine and tangible support for the people of Paris.

Once the players had emerged onto the pitch, La Marseillaise belted out from the stadium PA system. Then, Nick Day gave an impassioned speech about how terrorism would never succeed, followed by the usual impeccable minute’s silence you have come to expect from Gasheads at the Memorial Stadium. I am told a good number of people had to remove some grit from their eyes.

Nick has been the PA man for over 20 years now and people are always saying to me, “How much does Nick get paid?” The answer, you might think, would be a substantial wedge given his professionalism and gift of the gab, but the real answer is zilch. Bugger all. Nowt. For Nick is the most professional amateur in the business.

Now here is my idea, having discussed it with no one, least of all Nick himself. Why doesn’t the club hold a testimonial event for him, maybe even a football match? I cannot imagine Nick would accept the proceeds himself, but can you imagine how good causes might benefit in terms of profile and, more importantly, money? These days in football, as in so many aspects of life, we recognise the value of money but of little else. How about acknowledging outstanding voluntary service and trying to make something out of it?

Nick Day has always been there for other people. He was there when my village lost Ben Hiscox, he was there for Bristol City’s loveable Oskar Pycroft. He never asks for anything in return but I honestly believe that it’s about time he did.

Bristol Rovers are very lucky to have this great man as their PA announcer and indeed the small team of volunteers, including the brilliant Lance Cook. who make the matchday experience so much better for everyone. Stand up, raise a glass and cheer for Nick Day.