Pilgrims' Patter

The Forum => The B-Ark => Topic started by: youngchubby69 on July 21, 2018, 05:51:50 PM

Title: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: youngchubby69 on July 21, 2018, 05:51:50 PM
Hi all
As the work has now started on the new Stadium, I thought it would be a good idea with your help to compile some memories and stories of York Street.
The aim is to ask the board of they could make up some kind of book or presentation to be on view in the new Stadium.
You don't have to put your name to them as they are your personal memories and stories.
Thanks for help.
Ken could you please put this up as pinned post.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Dipdodah on July 21, 2018, 10:03:49 PM
I will start it off, if that is okay. I have so many memories and I will add a few more later on.

I remember the ground being so packed for the FA cup replay, against the league champions Derby County, that the police ushered about 500 fans onto the pitch.

We all met in the Axe and cleaver and The Kings Head before the match and walked in a large group to the ground.

We chanted and sang and at the time it was very impressive.

When we got to the ground, we were told derby fans had taken over the York St end ( our end )

We entered via the York Street turn styles and it was soon evident that a quart could not fit into a pint glass.

There was so many of us that we spilled onto the pitch.  The tunnel where the players came out was in the centre of the York street end at that time.  The tunnel had two wooden walls splitting the York St end into two halves .

These were bowing due to the sheer weight of the crowd.  If they collapsed many fans would have been injured  or worse. A police officer got me by the scruff of the neck and tried to throw me back into the crowd.  After a tussle and me shouting at him to see the tunnel did he see the seriousness of the situation.  I can still see him and two other burly coppers putting their shoulders to the wooden wall trying to stop it collapsing under the weight of so many fans.

My mate and I finished up watching the game from the directors box.  We climbed up there, to be honest we were made welcome.

I dread to think what would have happened.  The Boston lads chased the Derby fans out of the York st end and that made a bit of room.

I hate to think if it was not for me tussling with that PC,  Boston V derby would be remembered for a different reason.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Devon Pilgrim on July 22, 2018, 10:06:11 AM
My early memories of York street go back to the Mid 50's. I remember watching the first floodlight match against Corby Town in 1955, when there were OVER 9,000 ! of us in the ground. Slightly more vague, is seeing about that time a friendly against a touring African team (I think from Ghana) when some, if not all of the Africans played in bare feet!(perhaps another Veteran can confirm that !?)
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Wyberton pilgrim on July 22, 2018, 11:46:58 AM
I remember both games, the second one I think was against a Uganda FA 11 in 1956 and one or two did indeed play in bare feet and that was in the days of the heavy leather ball. Does anyone remember going by train to the FA cup match against Darlington 1957 when we got put in a siding and didn't get to the ground until half time?
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Champs next year on July 22, 2018, 04:09:18 PM
I remember both games, the second one I think was against a Uganda FA 11 in 1956 and one or two did indeed play in bare feet and that was in the days of the heavy leather ball. Does anyone remember going by train to the FA cup match against Darlington 1957 when we got put in a siding and didn't get to the ground until half time?

Was that the old Feethams stadium ? Think my uncle may have played for the Quakers he did one say he'd played against us a couple of times
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Champs next year on July 22, 2018, 04:19:46 PM
My early memories of York street go back to the Mid 50's. I remember watching the first floodlight match against Corby Town in 1955, when there were OVER 9,000 ! of us in the ground. Slightly more vague, is seeing about that time a friendly against a touring African team (I think from Ghana) when some, if not all of the Africans played in bare feet!(perhaps another Veteran can confirm that !?)

It makes perfect sense to play in bare feet, would be the managers instructions so none of their players could blame their Addidas Santiago for a poor performance also reduced the risk of disciplinary repercussions for studs showing tackles
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Wyberton pilgrim on July 22, 2018, 04:43:01 PM
I remember both games, the second one I think was against a Uganda FA 11 in 1956 and one or two did indeed play in bare feet and that was in the days of the heavy leather ball. Does anyone remember going by train to the FA cup match against Darlington 1957 when we got put in a siding and didn't get to the ground until half time?

Was that the old Feethams stadium ? Think my uncle may have played for the Quakers he did one say he'd played against us a couple of times
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               I am not sure what the ground was called but British Rail got called a few names and as for the ticket collector he had no chance and just got out of the way.     
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: youngchubby69 on July 22, 2018, 11:40:13 PM
Great stories, keep them coming.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: ElIdolo on July 24, 2018, 04:22:30 PM
My memories come from more of a recent timeline, and in terms of attendance less impressive. Whilst vague and patchy, I remember my first game being vs. Colywn Bay at home in the Dr. Martens league winning season - a 2-2 draw I think, with Chris Cook getting a yellow card... Other memories include seeing Gazza come on during the 2-2 Boxing Day draw vs. Lincoln and pull us back into the game and get the point, and watching us host Fulham in the League Cup with one of the bigger crowds I remember seeing there - especially on a Tuesday night. Also, holding celebrations one week night after winning the Conference title, and seeing all the players walk around and mingle with the fans (Unless this was Dr. Martens title win, but I'm sure it was the former)
Random memories also spring to mind - Bazza almost scoring from his own goal if not for the ball getting stuck in the mud on the opposing line. Daryl Clare dropping his shorts as a goal celebration. Plus in very recent memory, losing the play-off semi final on penalties following THAT overhead kick from Chorley to level the game on 90+ mins, and also Zak Mills scoring a ridiculous angled volley.

But all in all, the stadium has been a staple of my 20ish years supporting Boston. Walking up every weekend with my brother, dad and uncle, same seats each week, same half-time drink and food, the little things that give you great memories when looking back through the years. Having lost my dad some years ago, York Street also has an added value to me in that it is a prominent fixture in many memories that I have of good times with him.

Whilst kits, players, staff, attendances and atmospheres have changed over time, that special feeling of watching a game at York Street has never changed. (even if at times it hasn't been as prominent or felt as special)
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Wyberton pilgrim on July 24, 2018, 04:54:22 PM
All memories are worth recording, from long ago or recent times, keep them coming.   
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Pilgrim86 on July 25, 2018, 09:04:31 AM
Other memories include seeing Gazza come on during the 2-2 Boxing Day draw vs. Lincoln and pull us back into the game and get the point[/size]

That was at Sincil Bank. Courtney Pitt scored a penalty then Gazza floated a free kick onto Jason Lee's head.

Results at home to the Imps were 2-0, 0-1, 0-2, 2-1 and 1-0.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: leicester pilgrim on July 26, 2018, 10:02:14 PM
Just a few random suggestions:

Bob Lee's header in the last minute of the FA Trophy semi final.

Beating Grantham in front of a packed crowd over Easter on the way to winning the Dr Martens League.

That memorable League Cup tie against Luton Town where we won an end to end game in extra time.

Fulham's visit in the League Cup.

Newcastle bringing their first team for a friendly. Losing 1-0 to a goal from Brazilian international Mirandinha.

Beating Buxton 9-3, with eight different goalscorers. Being 9-1 up with half an hour still left and yet not scoring any more.

Scoring ten in an FA Cup tie versus Sudbury.

Recording our first ever home football league win against Lincoln.

Coming from behind to take the lead against Bournemouth in our first Football League game.

All the hype and media coverage around York Street when Gazza joined.

A game where we beat all conquering Barnet 5-0, with Stewart Hamill scoring a hat-trick.

Lots of memorable players, depending on your era.

Andy Kirk earning an international call up whilst a Boston player.

Chris Withe and his chicken impersonations after scoring.

Some great goals. Its a close call between John McGinley
 and Peter Bore for the best one I can remember.

Zak Mills with another memorable goal in a play off fixture.

Last minute overhead kick goals conceded in play offs.

Penalty shoot out defeats in play offs.

Lee Trundle diving to win a penalty against me. Blatant cheating on a Maradona scale.

Being reduced to nine men (harshly) in a cup tie against Altrincham.

Horrible defeats. Like losing 5-0 at home to Nantwich, 6-0 at home to Runcorn and 7-2 at home to Oxford City.

That Sunday lunchtime when we nearly didn't have a club, and when John Blackwell and Barrie Pierpoint addressed the crowd.

The moments which came afterwards when the club was saved. And that first match afterwards where we beat Workington

Some of the good players we've come up against. Stan Collymore, Andy Clarke, Mark Gall, Noel Ashford. At different times Barnet, Maidstone, Enfield, Altrincham and a few others have had really good  sides.

Regular FA Cup exits at the hands over lower ranked opposition.

Convincing win over Morecambe in another FA Cup tie.

Comedy moments, like ducks landing on the pitch and a hare running across it.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Dipdodah on July 27, 2018, 09:19:36 AM
Just a few random suggestions:

Bob Lee's header in the last minute of the FA Trophy semi final.

Beating Grantham in front of a packed crowd over Easter on the way to winning the Dr Martens League.

That memorable League Cup tie against Luton Town where we won an end to end game in extra time.

Fulham's visit in the League Cup.

Newcastle bringing their first team for a friendly. Losing 1-0 to a goal from Brazilian international Mirandinha.

Beating Buxton 9-3, with eight different goalscorers. Being 9-1 up with half an hour still left and yet not scoring any more.

Scoring ten in an FA Cup tie versus Sudbury.

Recording our first ever home football league win against Lincoln.

Coming from behind to take the lead against Bournemouth in our first Football League game.

All the hype and media coverage around York Street when Gazza joined.

A game where we beat all conquering Barnet 5-0, with Stewart Hamill scoring a hat-trick.

Lots of memorable players, depending on your era.

Andy Kirk earning an international call up whilst a Boston player.

Chris Withe and his chicken impersonations after scoring.

Some great goals. Its a close call between John McGinley
 and Peter Bore for the best one I can remember.

Zak Mills with another memorable goal in a play off fixture.

Last minute overhead kick goals conceded in play offs.

Penalty shoot out defeats in play offs.

Lee Trundle diving to win a penalty against me. Blatant cheating on a Maradona scale.

Being reduced to nine men (harshly) in a cup tie against Altrincham.

Horrible defeats. Like losing 5-0 at home to Nantwich, 6-0 at home to Runcorn and 7-2 at home to Oxford City.

That Sunday lunchtime when we nearly didn't have a club, and when John Blackwell and Barrie Pierpoint addressed the crowd.

The moments which came afterwards when the club was saved. And that first match afterwards where we beat Workington

Some of the good players we've come up against. Stan Collymore, Andy Clarke, Mark Gall, Noel Ashford. At different times Barnet, Maidstone, Enfield, Altrincham and a few others have had really good  sides.

Regular FA Cup exits at the hands over lower ranked opposition.

Convincing win over Morecambe in another FA Cup tie.

Comedy moments, like ducks landing on the pitch and a hare running across it.

Wow I think you covered it all
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Cavalier on July 27, 2018, 09:34:13 AM
Tony Freeman Forward (50-52) A tricky goalscoring winger. Formerly on Notts County's books. Born 29/8/1928 in Melton Mowbray. Died February 2004.

My first Boston United hero was this flying winger who could also score goals.  Remember watching him close up from Spain Road side.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Dipdodah on July 27, 2018, 12:37:54 PM
My first match was against Leyton Orient in the FA cup.

Having watched only football on TV ( in black and white ) to see amber and black all over the ground was a pleasant surprise.

The other thing that stood out in my memory, was the distinct smell of rubs and liniment as the players ran onto the pitch.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Cavalier on July 27, 2018, 05:53:41 PM
My first match would have been in the 1950/51 season and I can remember the thrill of being in the mass of supporters funnelling down Shodfriers Lane.  The crush was such I felt as if I could be carried along without my feet touching the ground, not surprising as the attendance at the first match of the season v Peterborough Utd in the Midland League was 8,362. The turnstiles were at the Town End and fed onto a cinder bank without any covering and the changing rooms were in that corner next to Spain Road.   
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Eddie Killick on July 27, 2018, 05:56:01 PM
Anybody remember us beating Altrincham to progress to the FA Trophy final at Wembley or was that just my poor memory?
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Dipdodah on July 29, 2018, 08:25:12 AM
Anyone remember Bertie Wilson?  He used to run around the pitch before the match for beer money :)
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Dave H on July 29, 2018, 02:47:28 PM
Anybody remember us beating Altrincham to progress to the FA Trophy final at Wembley or was that just my poor memory?
I remember this season well as I was 12 and had just started to attend York Street and it gave me the impression this club would get to Wembley most season's ! (Slightly naïve)
As for the Altrincham game we were packed like sardines into the York Street end (no townenders in those days). As with all big games trouble arrived and Arthur Mann prompted by the police came over to tell whoever was throwing golf balls to pack it in. Obviously the biggest moment was when Bob Lee rose at the far post and thumped the header in the back of the net. The ground erupted : Boston were off to the twin towers of Wembley !
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: green hats mate on July 29, 2018, 04:26:30 PM
Anyone remember Bertie Wilson?  He used to run around the pitch before the match for beer money :)

I remember him well dip ,  not so much for running around YS in oversize wellies but for having the audacity outside The Still one night to ask me to buy him half a pint of beer .
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Dipdodah on July 29, 2018, 05:24:44 PM
GHM, I am a betting man.  I would say the chance of you buying him half a pint would be priced at 100/1 ;) ;)
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Wyberton pilgrim on July 29, 2018, 06:10:23 PM
I remember him well and the supporters cheering him on as he completed his run around the pitch sometimes more than one lap, half time entertainment for some.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: green hats mate on July 29, 2018, 06:35:18 PM
GHM, I am a betting man.  I would say the chance of you buying him half a pint would be priced at 100/1 ;) ;)

100/1 ?   you've missed a few nought's off Dip . :)
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Crazy Neil on July 30, 2018, 04:56:15 PM
Where do I start? So many memories of the Street. The first game I saw was in December 1965 (aged 4) Dad took me whilst Mum did the present buying. I know we won but that was/is about all. The Derby cup replay (bunked off school, no way was I missing that). The 85 Wembley route, coming back like we did against Blyth to win 5-4 then that Bob Lee header that took us to Wembley. The Hurst and Scott promotions.

Those are just a few, there are also the memories of players, Adamson, Thompson, Froggatt, Cook, the 84/85 squad and many many more that stick in the memory.

Will miss the ground when we move, so many happy times at various viewing points, oh and also made the cover of the 83 (I think that was the year, will have to search through)  seasons programme, a shot of the town end in it's infancy, a night game with not many of us up there as it was freezing the proverbials off. :D
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Fairfax on July 30, 2018, 05:44:11 PM
Not my earliest memory of Shoddy's, but my first day in long trousers, spent sitting among the girders of the new York Street stand taking shape. I think the game was in the FA Cup against Grantham (6-3). My mother would have slaughtered me if the trousers had been torn.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Wyberton pilgrim on August 02, 2018, 01:02:39 PM
I remember going down Shodfriers lane and the queues at the turnstiles where the Gliderdrome is now, Richmonds steel works on the right hand side of the queue and workers cutting steel with oxy aceteline cutters and sparks flying everywhere, the childrens turnstile was on the right and near this work. Does anyone remember how much it cost in the mid to late 1940s to get in? 9 old pennies rings a bell but not sure if that was for children or adults or if my memory is playing tricks.   
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Eddie Killick on August 04, 2018, 02:49:36 PM
I remember St.. Johns ambulance people going around the ground with a grey blanket where supporters could throw in loose change.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Cavalier on August 06, 2018, 04:03:36 PM
I remember as a young boy we often had a marching brass band entertain the crowd at half time.   As they marched the leader would twirl his baton, throw it high in the air, catch it neatly and continue twirling.  The powerful music stoked my anticipation for the re-entry of the gladiators into the arena.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: abully on August 07, 2018, 07:38:21 AM
Two memories from 45 years ago.
My two brothers plus sister in law and a few friends used to stand every match on the Spayne road side just to the left of the half way line. We took turns to fetch the pies and teas just before half time to avoid the rush.
On this particular occasion whilst David was walking back from the tea kiosk, makeshift tray in hand,the ball went onto the stand and dropped onto his tray.When he got to us the pies were floating!(they did replace them Foc)
On the other occasion that springs to mind ,one of the players ripped his shorts badly and had to change them.
My brother Colin said "Don't look Jane"
In true Frank Carson style she replied " I think i'll risk one eye"
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Dipdodah on August 08, 2018, 09:54:01 PM
I remember in 1991,. I was a factory manager for a local firm.

I had 45 staff under me, and seemed to be working all hours God sent.   Boston were playing in a round of the Non league Trophy on a Wednesday night.  I was desperate to see the match.  I knew we had an important  order to finish so had the machines working flat out.  A breakdown in the afternoon meant overtime for the staff and me not seeing the match.

I was gutted.  I had an ambitious lad working for me who was always badgering for promotion.  I had an idea.  With the order expected to be completed by 8.15 but the match starting at 7.30, I had 45 minutes in which to cover.  I called said lad into the office " This is your big chance " I said  " Run the factory for 45 minutes, get the order out, and sit in the canteen until I come back"  He jumped at the chance.

Now remember, this is the time before Mobile phones.  I settled in to watch the match. Music played the players entered the pitch and all of a sudden my name came over the speakers.  " COULD I RETURN TO WORK IMMEDIATELY "  A big cheer went up in the crowd.

I rushed back to the factory to find it silent.  All the staff were sat in the canteen on time and half pay.  The conveyor belt had tripped a fuse and instead of going across to the engineer and getting him to fix it, he stopped production and called me away from the match.

The order was late, the powers that be, were unhappy with the amount of overtime and the lad fluffed his chance.  And I missed the match >:(
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Cavalier on August 09, 2018, 03:26:37 PM
I remember in 1991,. I was a factory manager for a local firm.

I had 45 staff under me, and seemed to be working all hours God sent.   Boston were playing in a round of the Non league Trophy on a Wednesday night.  I was desperate to see the match.  I knew we had an important  order to finish so had the machines working flat out.  A breakdown in the afternoon meant overtime for the staff and me not seeing the match.

I was gutted.  I had an ambitious lad working for me who was always badgering for promotion.  I had an idea.  With the order expected to be completed by 8.15 but the match starting at 7.30, I had 45 minutes in which to cover.  I called said lad into the office " This is your big chance " I said  " Run the factory for 45 minutes, get the order out, and sit in the canteen until I come back"  He jumped at the chance.

Now remember, this is the time before Mobile phones.  I settled in to watch the match. Music played the players entered the pitch and all of a sudden my name came over the speakers.  " COULD I RETURN TO WORK IMMEDIATELY "  A big cheer went up in the crowd.

I rushed back to the factory to find it silent.  All the staff were sat in the canteen on time and half pay.  The conveyor belt had tripped a fuse and instead of going across to the engineer and getting him to fix it, he stopped production and called me away from the match.

The order was late, the powers that be, were unhappy with the amount of overtime and the lad fluffed his chance.  And I missed the match >:(

Not a good memory and I take it the lad's not on your Christmas card list?   :'( 
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: youngchubby69 on August 14, 2018, 01:35:52 PM
Hi all
Got some really good news from David Newton, we have his backing for our/your memories of York Street project, this was something that they were thinking about having in an area in the new stadium.
So keep them coming, l have really enjoyed reading them so far..
Thanks everyone.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Eddie Killick on August 16, 2018, 08:15:39 PM
Anybody remember watching the pre-season games called Possibles v Probables? More to the point, does anyone have a programme for one of those matches? It would be interesting to see some of the players names. I think they were in the early 50's.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Wyberton pilgrim on August 16, 2018, 10:38:10 PM
I remember them but sorry no programme.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: noughtyforties on August 17, 2018, 11:44:39 AM
I've a single sheet from I think 1957/58 season Possible v Probables. I'll look when I get home.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Eddie Killick on August 18, 2018, 05:51:21 PM
Would love to see it. They were all single sheet profs in those matches.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Dipdodah on August 19, 2018, 09:12:51 AM
Who can remember Mick Baxter's invalid car catching fire?
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Wyberton pilgrim on August 19, 2018, 03:00:04 PM
I remember the FA Cup game BUFC v Oldham 22/11/1952 we lost  1 - 2 Kurz was our goal scorer and George Hardwick ex England international was in Oldhams team. Farm trailers had been put on the top of the embankment behind the town end goal so that some spectators could stand on them to get a better view as the attendance was 7,914.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: green hats mate on August 19, 2018, 03:18:07 PM
I remember the FA Cup game BUFC v Oldham 22/11/1952 we lost  1 - 2 Kurz was our goal scorer and George Hardwick ex England international was in Oldhams team. Farm trailers had been put on the top of the embankment behind the town end goal so that some spectators could stand on them to get a better view as the attendance was 7,914.

I'm sure you will remember our pacey winger  Tony Freeman (ex Notts C ) from that match WP .   Mesmerised Midland League defenders up to that game .  with the injuries inflicted on him in the 90 mins against Hardwick he was never the same player again .
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Cavalier on August 19, 2018, 11:04:45 PM

I remember the FA Cup game BUFC v Oldham 22/11/1952 we lost  1 - 2 Kurz was our goal scorer and George Hardwick ex England international was in Oldhams team. Farm trailers had been put on the top of the embankment behind the town end goal so that some spectators could stand on them to get a better view as the attendance was 7,914.

I'm sure you will remember our pacey winger  Tony Freeman (ex Notts C ) from that match WP .   Mesmerised Midland League defenders up to that game .  with the injuries inflicted on him in the 90 mins against Hardwick he was never the same player again .

My first Boston United hero was this flying winger who could also score goals.  Remember watching him close up from Spain Road side although I can't remember that game.
[/quote]
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Eddie Killick on August 24, 2018, 07:35:01 PM
I know it's not York Street but back in the late 70's and early 80's the club gave out a few free entry tickets to our supporters at away games. I remember on one occasionjust missing out but Ernest Malkinson lent me his ground pass saying that will get you into any league ground. It did gain me  free entry but I begrudgingly gave him it back once I had passed through the turnstiles.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Dipdodah on August 25, 2018, 11:00:15 AM
My mate Les had someone make him up a press pass, he never paid to get in any ground, including Boston.  That was in the 70's. :)
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Norfolkngood on September 20, 2018, 04:53:28 PM
I must have loads of old United programmes gathering dust in my loft.
Happy to donate any to this project if necessary.
I too remember the two Derby County games.....I recall a muddy pitch and a divot on the line depriving us of a victory at the Baseball Ground. Some older than me will tell you of the 50's victory there followed by Spurs away !
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: youngchubby69 on September 20, 2018, 05:38:32 PM
I must have loads of old United programmes gathering dust in my loft.
Happy to donate any to this project if necessary.
I too remember the two Derby County games.....I recall a muddy pitch and a divot on the line depriving us of a victory at the Baseball Ground. Some older than me will tell you of the 50's victory there followed by Spurs away !
Many thanks l am sure they will be of some use.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Dipdodah on October 07, 2018, 01:55:53 PM
I remember when, we the fans raised the money for the new stands at York Street.  My mate worked for Craven and Nicks and they had the contract for some of the steel works.  His job was to measure and cut many lengths of steel.  When it came to welding and fixing, all lengths were several inches short.  His ruler was missing several inches off the end and he had not realised.  Not happy was an understatement :D :D
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: youngchubby69 on November 19, 2018, 05:19:25 AM
My first match was against Leyton Orient in the FA cup.

Having watched only football on TV ( in black and white ) to see amber and black all over the ground was a pleasant surprise.

The other thing that stood out in my memory, was the distinct smell of rubs and liniment as the players ran onto the pitch.
I remember putting on white oils before a match in my playing day's.
Some of the old boys told me they used to use Horse oils in the old days.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: John C on December 10, 2018, 11:57:40 AM
In this month's When Saturday Comes there is a piece about HSV Barmbak-Uhlenhorst, a small club in Hamburg who moved grounds about four years ago. As well the bar in the new ground being a sort of museum as well, the article says "there are small souvenirs all over the pace, a little iron railing here,  an enamel sign there"

Could we do something similar at our new place?
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: oxo on December 10, 2018, 06:13:02 PM
In this month's When Saturday Comes there is a piece about HSV Barmbak-Uhlenhorst, a small club in Hamburg who moved grounds about four years ago. As well the bar in the new ground being a sort of museum as well, the article says "there are small souvenirs all over the pace, a little iron railing here,  an enamel sign there"

Could we do something similar at our new place?

I think the chairman certainly wants something like this, BUSA are also working on things along these lines ie; A hall of fame. I also remind all those donating to my Jam Jar fund raiser it is for you to decide how this fund will be used so please begin thinking of ideas that will benefit fans thus benefiting the club.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Ken Fox on June 23, 2019, 08:19:49 PM
Craig Singleton has been in touch and asked whether I'd be willing to do a piece each week in the match programme this season on York Street history. I've said yes.

I would like get a good selection of all your memories and stories to include. So if you've got some more to add it would be great.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Boston forever on June 24, 2019, 10:32:16 AM
Becky Thompson needs to be talking to her dad!
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Becky on June 27, 2019, 06:26:07 PM
I talk to him every day !!
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Old boy thin on July 29, 2019, 05:49:37 AM
I remember coming to a match when Greg Fee was playing for us, l was sitting in the stand just behind the dug outs with my Grandson on my lap.
Greg went to clear the ball and it came off another player and hit me straight in the face.
I remember the lady sitting next to me, grabbing hold of grandson because she thought l was going to drop him as l was semi conscious and dazed, the chap sitting behind me put his hands on my shoulders to steady me.
Fantastic kindness showed by everyone sitting around me, which l have never forgot.
Greg even made a point of coming over to check if l was ok.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Becky on August 16, 2019, 10:04:41 AM
Someone was asking for the floodlight photo from Portsmouth in the F.A.Cup, found it in the end a bit late though !!
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Ken Fox on August 16, 2019, 12:57:52 PM
Someone was asking for the floodlight photo from Portsmouth in the F.A.Cup, found it in the end a bit late though !!

Many thanks Becky. It missed my piece on floodlights in the Leamington programme, but it will be great for the write up I'm going to do on the Portsmouth game.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: yam man on August 16, 2019, 01:46:07 PM
My first year coming to York Street after moving from Kent, I well remember coming from 2-0 down to beat Wigan 4-2 (Someone will probably tell me I've got the score wrong!). Coincidentally the match was mentioned prior to the Leamington game. What a team that season. I also seem to remember standing at the (uncovered?) Gliderdrome end when Dominico Genevese (I know that must be spelled wrong) scored twice in another comeback win, I think in the Trophy against possibly a team from the north east.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: noughtyforties on August 16, 2019, 04:11:39 PM
Yep, we were 2-0 down to Wigan before turning it round, I was there, one of my first games.

The Town End was covered that night you are on about, the 5-4 v Blyth, you might have stood near the front!
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Eddie Killick on August 30, 2019, 09:25:09 AM
I remember a match when we were 3-1 down at HT but went on to win 7-3 ! I think our opponents were a team called Ransome & Marles or is my memory playing tricks in old age. Perhaps Ken can find the answer in the archives?
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Myleftfoot on August 30, 2019, 01:07:46 PM
I remember a match when we were 3-1 down at HT but went on to win 7-3 ! I think our opponents were a team called Ransome & Marles or is my memory playing tricks in old age. Perhaps Ken can find the answer in the archives?

Ransome & Marles from Newark, a ball and roller bearing factory. My grandmother live next to it on Stanley street.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Ken Fox on August 31, 2019, 08:15:55 PM
I remember a match when we were 3-1 down at HT but went on to win 7-3 ! I think our opponents were a team called Ransome & Marles or is my memory playing tricks in old age. Perhaps Ken can find the answer in the archives?

Looks like a game from 1961/2 (http://www.bufc.drfox.org.uk/seas61.html) when both sides were in the Central Alliance. The game at Shodfriars Lane on Sat 25th Nov ended up

Boston United 7-3 Ransome & Marles (2427) Topley, Smith(3), Flack(2), Lister(1)
Boston United: Jimmy McDowell, Maurice White, Frank Lockey, Alan Whitworth, Mick Lord, Tom Brown, Jimmy Longworth, Brian Topley, Colin Smith, Brian Flack, Eric Lister
 
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: porl99 on October 11, 2019, 09:39:15 PM
Newcastle bringing their first team for a friendly. Losing 1-0 to a goal from Brazilian international Mirandinha.

Very minor point but although Mirandinha played in that game he didn't actually score - the game's only game was scored by the Dane (and lesser-known Newcastle player) Frank Pingel.  I was Newcastle's mascot that day!  Glenn Roeder was Newcastle's captain and I remember the referee given me the £1 coin used during the toss-up at the start of the game which I thought was loads of money at the time! 

Although I am a Boston lad my Dad brought me up as a Newcastle supporter so this was a fabulous day full of memories for me.  I've still got the game on VHS...
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Dipdodah on October 12, 2019, 12:02:34 PM
I lived opposite the ground in Spayne road.  I remember that game very well.  One of the Newcastle fans decided to break into my shed, he did not see my black lab in the garden.  When I got outside, all I could see was this Geordie trying to get over the fence with my lab firmly biting the seat of his tracky bottoms.  :) :)
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Ken Fox on October 12, 2019, 12:55:38 PM
I wrote this one up as one of my "Classic Games" for the match programmes a few years back. Here's the piece:

http://www.bufc.drfox.org.uk/C180289.html (http://www.bufc.drfox.org.uk/C180289.html)

Thanks for all the stories - keep them coming.

Newcastle bringing their first team for a friendly. Losing 1-0 to a goal from Brazilian international Mirandinha.

Very minor point but although Mirandinha played in that game he didn't actually score - the game's only game was scored by the Dane (and lesser-known Newcastle player) Frank Pingel.  I was Newcastle's mascot that day!  Glenn Roeder was Newcastle's captain and I remember the referee given me the £1 coin used during the toss-up at the start of the game which I thought was loads of money at the time! 

Although I am a Boston lad my Dad brought me up as a Newcastle supporter so this was a fabulous day full of memories for me.  I've still got the game on VHS...
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Ken Fox on December 22, 2019, 11:06:36 PM
I've started putting my match programme pieces on the web site. Keep the memories of York Street coming.

Here are the first few:

   
   
   


Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: TAWMAN on January 30, 2020, 05:12:37 PM
Ken

Re your piece in the Kidderminster programme about non-Boston United related events at the ground.

There was a huge pageant at the ground in 1951, as part of the Festival of Britain. The theme was the history of Boston from AD 654 to 1951. The crowd was estimated to be 9,000. Lincolnshire Film Archive has a film of the occasion.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Ken Fox on January 30, 2020, 09:17:32 PM
Ken

Re your piece in the Kidderminster programme about non-Boston United related events at the ground.

There was a huge pageant at the ground in 1951, as part of the Festival of Britain. The theme was the history of Boston from AD 654 to 1951. The crowd was estimated to be 9,000. Lincolnshire Film Archive has a film of the occasion.

Brilliant. Many thanks for that. I'll have a dig in the newspaper archive to see if I can get the details.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: noughtyforties on January 31, 2020, 03:30:45 PM
I've got the programme from it, I'll put it up on the Photo Archive later.......PM me on Facebook to remind me Ken.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Ken Fox on February 02, 2020, 07:16:10 PM
I've bunged a few more of the match programme articles on the History of York Street on the web site:



Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Ken Fox on February 07, 2020, 06:22:10 PM
Ken

Re your piece in the Kidderminster programme about non-Boston United related events at the ground.

There was a huge pageant at the ground in 1951, as part of the Festival of Britain. The theme was the history of Boston from AD 654 to 1951. The crowd was estimated to be 9,000. Lincolnshire Film Archive has a film of the occasion.

A bit of Googling has uncovered the details of this on a website about Historical Pageants: http://www.historicalpageants.ac.uk/pageants/999/ (http://www.historicalpageants.ac.uk/pageants/999/)

noughtyforties has dug out the programme for me and posted on the Boston United Photo Archive on Facebook.

So I reckon I've got enough to write a little piece on it in the match programme now. Thanks for pointing me at it.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: TAWMAN on February 11, 2020, 03:54:38 PM
Ken

Another suggestion for inclusion in a programme - full internationals who've played for Boston? I count 15: Don Donovan, Jack Doran, Paul Gascoigne, Phil Gray, Asa Hartford, Kevin Hector, Eric Houghton, Derek Kevan, Andy Kirk, Pat McConnell, Andy Marriott, Ray O'Brien, Ludovic Quistin, Mel Sterland and Fred Tunstall. Some great players amongst that lot!

Not to mention other internationals who've played at York Street - what a privilege it was to see the great Archie Gemmell give a masterclass in 1974.

Doug
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Pilgrim86 on February 11, 2020, 09:01:21 PM
Spencer Weir-Daley is still a current Montserrat international. Jermaine Easter went on to play for Wales, Sebastian Małkowski played once for Poland, Jason St Juste for St Kitts, Courtney Wildin for Antigua... must be a few more too.
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: TAWMAN on February 12, 2020, 11:34:07 AM
I mentioned Gemmill but there were loads of stars from the forties onwards who played for opponents, especially in friendlies, charity matches and testimonials. In the sixties I remember seeing Stan Matthews playing for a Port Vale XI, Derek Temple with Wigan and Kevin Keegan playing on the wing for Scunthorpe in a Lincs Senior Cup game. And Barry Fry for Barnet!
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: chris b on February 12, 2020, 12:20:54 PM
Zeph Thomas and Ryan Robbins (St Kitts and Nevis)
Pa Sulay Njie (Gambia)
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: bostonwoody on February 12, 2020, 01:30:51 PM
Wasn't Henrich Ravas a Polish under 21 international. Does that count?
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: John C on February 12, 2020, 06:41:06 PM
I don't like to slag players off but I don't suppose he will be reading this. Pa Sulay Njie is the worst player I have ever seen play for Boston.

However I am not suggesting the worst Pilgrim ever as an idea for a programme article Ken!
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Pilgrim86 on February 12, 2020, 09:49:48 PM
Wasn't Henrich Ravas a Polish under 21 international. Does that count?

Doubt it, he's Slovakian!
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: bostonwoody on February 13, 2020, 11:51:32 PM
I was so close!!
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Dipdodah on May 01, 2020, 04:59:24 PM
I remember Alex Gibson playing for us in the 70's. He was having a bad game and a old guy with a cap and a pipe was giving him some stick. Alex picked the ball up in his own half, beat four players before planting it in the back of the net.

He then ran over to said fan, gave him a piece of his mind, before grabbing his cap and throwing it into the back of the stand. :) :)
Title: Re: Your memories and stories of York Street
Post by: Old boy thin on May 02, 2020, 06:35:42 PM
I remember Alex Gibson playing for us in the 70's. He was having a bad game and a old guy with a cap and a pipe was giving him some stick. Alex picked the ball up in his own half, beat four players before planting it in the back of the net.

He then ran over to said fan, gave him a piece of his mind, before grabbing his cap and throwing it into the back of the stand. :) :)
Great story. Can you imagine if that happened now.