Alan and Eileen had been great neighbours for many years but it was only when i decided to start mowing the grass verge alongside our properties that i came to know Alan much better.

Alan would wander down the drive to have a chat. One day the subject turned to football and we discovered a mutual love of West Brom - the Baggies!

The verge mowing soon became an excuse to exchange views on our occasional successes and what seemed like regular disasters. Comments began with : Why couldn’t we have done this?... or How can they pick so and so?... and When will they drop such and such?... but the team had its triumphant moments and we always parted with smiles, good wishes and fervent hopes for future success as all Baggies fans will know so well.

On the night of 26th June West Brom managed to lose away at Brentford - sorry Alan! but Sharon, Trevor and I consoled ourselves  with a chocfest consisting of Whole Nut, Fruit and Nut, ToffeeCrisp, Toblerone and raising a glass to Alan. I’ll miss him but never forget him. Tim