Here at Liverpool FC Disabled Supporters Association we are now into our tenth year. We plan to celebrate our anniversary throughout the year with various events at the club, culminating in the Christmas Party which is close to the actual foundation date.
Since December 2012, starting what seems a long time ago now with the 2012 Christmas Party with numerous awards presented on the night and the announcement of our new President for 2013, David Fairclough, who took over the reins from John Barnes. David was unavailable on the night to collect his Presidents Award so it was collected on his behalf by club legend, former player and head of public relations, Brian Hall. Brian also received a Lifetime Achievement award on the night to acknowledge his hard work over the years in helping with the LDSA’s inauguration and getting us put firmly on the map within the club.
On a very busy evening hosted by LDSA committee member Steve Evans, a lovely three course meal was served followed with music by Abbarella, and a visit from Father Christmas. Goalkeeper Brad Jones made an appearance, on the day he signed a new contract keeping him at the club for the foreseeable future. He happily posed for photographs and signed pictures for LDSA members, family and friends. ‘Big Ears’ our European Cup was on display and many members took the opportunity to have photographs taken with the cup during the evening. The ladies that evening thought Brad Jones was slightly more appealing than ‘Big Ears’!
Other awards on the night included a cheque from the LDSA being donated to local radio station Radio City’s Cash for Kids appeal.
The two most surprised people of the evening were LDSA founder members Andy Coleman and Ann Ward, who also received lifetime awards for their services to the Association.
A fun packed evening was had by all with proceedings going on late into the evening, our ‘guests’ proving very popular subjects for the family albums.
The New Year could bring the start of redevelopment to Anfield and with the LDSA now swelling to over 400 members strong, we are hoping for another great year. Up next is the LPF week of action in March, followed by the Player of the Year dinner night in May, amid celebrations of the tenth year of Liverpool Disabled Supporters Association. To keep up to date with us, click here: http://www.liverpoolfc.com/community/ldsa
Author: Steve Evans LDSA Committee Member 1st March 2013.
Photographs: Andrew Powell LFC Official Photographer