Tuesday 15 March 2011

80 Hours Later

A further 80 hours on from our return to Hereford, and we have had a lot of time to reflect on just what we achieved. More pictures will be published in the coming weeks, but it is our wish to give you an insight into our trip, and share with you some of our memories. There were times when we were buzzing, and there were times we were so tired we had no idea where we were anymore. But through it all the memories of Stanno kept us going, and helped us to achieve our goal.


Our first stop was Swansea, where we actually arrived in plenty of time. As with many of our stops, it was still dark, so we found the most appropriate location for a photo and then moved on quickly.


Arguably the highlight of the trip was St James' Park, Exeter. Outside Newcastle's namesake, Adam gave Grecian and Katie stick about the 'real' St James Park, but admits now that it was the Devon Club where the magic truly happened. Greeted by journalists and fans was a special experiance, but to meet Roger Stansfield, Adam's Father, and also Marie, his wife was such a humbling and emotional moment, it really touched our hearts, and inspired us in the difficult moments that were to follow.


We were blessed at some grounds, including 4 Premier League, to be granted pitchside access. Several had to be blagged, and one or two small lies told, but it was well worth it for the photo oppourtunity. Here we are at rain swept Anfield, shortly before our mad dash south.


Arriving at Hereford, within the 80 hours was a fantastic feeling. The plaudits and support we received afterwards from you all was astonishing. Its not us that accomplished anything, its you. Again, your backing and faith in us truly was the energy that got us home.

A video diary was kept, and is available at www.herefordunited.co.uk. It is premium content, but a free trial opttion is available (just remember to cancel withing the 14 days or you will be charged.

Further updates, and a more indepth summary are still to come, and we will meet with all you when we hold our auctions over the summer.

With much love

The Around the Grounds Team

Saturday 12 March 2011

The Final Countdown - 1

Stadium: Edgar Street
Club: Hereford United
Arrival: 09.30
Departure: N/A

The Final Countdown - 2

Stadium: Whaddon Road
Club: Cheltenham Town
Arrival: 08.13
Departure: 08.18

Journeys End

With just Cheltenham to go, our time of arrival at Edgar Street will be 09.30 outside Radford's bar. Thanks again to everyone who has supported us on our journey, and anyone wishing to celebrate our successful trip, feel free to make yourself present!

This mission has never been about us, but the idea of celebrating our success as a tribute to Adam Stansfield's tremendous influence on all our lives is something we all feel is well worth commemorating.

Thanks to one and all.

Adam, Katie, Chris, Dave and Steve.
The Around The Grounds Team.

The Final Countdown - 3

Stadium: The County Ground
Club: Swindon Town
Arrival: 07.23
Departure: 07.30

Our thanks to the member of staff who took a group photo for us.

The Final Countdown - 4

Stadium: Kassam Stadium
Club: Oxford United
Arrival: 06.25
Departure: 06.36

Many thanks to the staff member at Oxford Utd who allowed us pitchside, and to Exeweb's 'Poundstretcher' aka Neil for his generous donation.

The Final Countdown - 5

Stadium: The Ricoh Arena
Club: Coventry City
Arrival: 04.50
Departure: 04.53