|
|
|
History in a Capsule at Plough LaneFriday 8th May saw a small gathering at Plough Lane to inspect the items which will be placed within the time capsule soon to be buried there to commemorate Wimbledon FC’s eighty years at the site. The idea of a time capsule was originally suggested by our fans posting on WUP. WISA also collected suggestions from fans as to what the time capsule should contain, at the time of the vote two years ago on the names for the blocks of flats at Plough Lane. The contents include a shirt from the 1989-90 centenary season, a Wimbledon scarf, pin badges, the Centenary Book, programmes from the FA Cup and Amateur Cup Finals, an FA Cup Final DVD, DVDs containing highlights of other memorable matches, and photographs of the ground and teams. Three of our most eminent former players were there to admire the contents and remember the old times: Roy Law, captain of the Amateur Cup-winning team in 1963; former striker/midfielder and AFC Wimbledon director Ian Cooke and his wife Pat; and legendary goalkeeper Dickie Guy, now our club president. Representing our fans were Dave McKnight and Mick Pugh, who had provided most of the contents, and Sean Fox and Gail Moss from WISA, who have liaised with the developers Barratt Homes over plans to commemorate the Dons’ history at Plough Lane. Also present was the artist who’ll be creating the artwork which will represent the history of Wimbledon FC at Plough Lane. He was lapping up reminiscences, suggesting ideas (and getting them back!) and generally trying to find out as much as he could to help him do the best job possible. After the photoshoot indoors, the sun miraculously appeared, and we were able to go outside and take more pictures on Durnsford Road standing round the Wimbledon flag, to the accompaniment of tooting horns from passing traffic. It’s good to know how many people out there still remember! We should like to thank Dave and Mick for supplying the memorabilia, as well as Rob Dunford, who provided three compilation DVDs with match highlights and TV programmes. Dave and Mick kindly donated the items they provided, and suggested that WISA make a donation to the ground fund in lieu. WISA has been pleased to donate £250 to the fund. Barratt have paid for the time capsule itself. We know there may be some disappointment at the low-key nature of the event. Barratt had originally planned an occasion along the lines of the naming ceremony, and WISA were hoping to invite more fans and run another draw. Unfortunately, the budget was cut because of the continuing economic downturn, and attendance was severely restricted. However, a bigger event is planned for the unveiling of the artwork when it is finished. This is expected to happen this autumn, and we’ll keep you posted on developments. Meanwhile, WISA would like to thank all who have helped in providing ideas and content for the time capsule, and not least Barratt for helping us to provide another reminder of Wimbledon FC’s history on the site. Gail Moss
|
