FA Trophy Finalists play in Wembley Stadium – every footballer’s dream. So when 100 years old Hanwell Town FC perched in 6th place in the Non-League Division One were drawn against, and hosted, local rivals, Enfield Town FC who are second in the Non-League Premiership League (one league above), Hanwell smelt a sniff of the potential for a shock and some cup glory.
On this icey cold afternoon, approximately 100 Enfield fans made the journey to west London. Lifelong fan, Steve Blow was, as he said, ‘blown away’ by what happened in the turnstile when he arrived. The turnstile lady asked him the strangest question he’s ever been asked:
‘Would you like some handwarmer sachets?’
‘You what love?’ said the former policeman and lifelong Enfield fan.
‘Would you like some free handwarmer sachets?’ repeated the wondrous turnstile lady ‘on this ice-cold afternoon?’.
‘Yes please’ said Steve
‘Give them a rub and they go warm’ says the mystical, friendly and world’s most generous turnstile lady – which sure enough, they did, much to Steve Blow’s delight. Here’s his take on it all.
And there you have it! Hanwell Town FC, a magical football venue.
A great day out at Hanwell FC, in west London. Lovely pints and warm food plus a great atmosphere. I can’t remember any events where every single person that I bumped into (both Hanwell and Enfield) said ‘sorry mate’ in a warm and friendly way. Great atmosphere. Great football. Great banter on this icey-cold winter’s afternoon, in the cosy and welcoming clubhouse of Hanwell FC.
When Enfield scored their first goal, a smiling Enfield fan moved a yard forward to stand alongside some Hanwell fans to let them know that ‘Enfield are going to wem-ba-ley’ to which the reply gently came “that’s the 483 bus you’ll need mate!” Great banter as fans mixed, exchanged comments and shared insights.
Congrats to Enfield 2-0 winners and also congrats to Hanwell Town FC who played some great football too, in this their 100th year.
This is real. This is football.
The London Geordies – The History of Hanwell Town Football Club by Colm Hickey, just released (one week ago) and available from www.hanwelltownfc.co.uk
Sounds like a thoroughly good day out was had by all. Nice!
Yes Kingo – a grand day dripping in decent characters, honourable football and courteous fans everywhere and of course, the wonderful turnstile lady.
I was lucky enough to represent Hanwell Town late nineties played Enfield.we lost 3
Good man Michael. A great club Hanwell Town FC.
Good man Rae – I hope you are stil playing – perhaps Vets footy?