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HPFC Groundhopper Day

HPFC Groundhopper Day

Andrew Schooler12 Nov 2023 - 08:56
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https://www.harwichandparkesto

Guided tour of the Royal Oak on offer to visitors this Saturday.

Harwich and Parkeston FC's ‘groundhopper day’, to celebrate the 75th birthday of the Royal Oak’s famous grandstand, takes place this coming Saturday.

Prior to the Eastern Counties League game with Dussindale and Hellesdon Rovers on November 18, a guided tour of the ground will take place, explaining the stand’s history and that of the rest of the Royal Oak, which recently celebrated its 125th anniversary.

The tour will take place at 2pm ahead of the 3pm kick-off.

Shrimpers legend Micky Johnson, who played more than 400 games for the club, is among those expected on the day. He is currently back in the UK on holiday from Australia, where he now lives. Several of his former team-mates are also expected to pay a visit to the Oak to catch up with Mick.

In addition, a photo exhibition will also be on display in the social club featuring old photos of the stand – officially opened on November 13, 1948 by then-FA secretary Stanley Rous - and the ground.

Peter Lynn, author of 'Football Crazy' in which HPFC feature (including on the cover), will be selling copies of his book at the exhibition.

Admission is £6 for adults, £4 for concessions and free for under-16s. Cash payments are preferred.

As a special offer, the club is offering entry, a printed programme and club pin badge for only £10.

Programmes can be reserved by emailing harwichfc@yahoo.com.

Anyone requiring further details about the day is also urged to use that email address.

The club looks forward to welcoming new visitors to the Royal Oak on the day.

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