FGR wishes to recognise the passing of a passionate and dedicated supporter, Neil Newport. Neil began watching FGR when he was just five years old. He later would go on to play for the club between 1964 and 1970, before an unfortunate leg break brought his playing career to an end.
That did not stop Neil from being an integral part of the FGR family. He followed the lads in black and white, and then in green and black, for over 25 years, home and away. In addition, Neil volunteered at The Lawn and The New Lawn, working on the gate to welcome supporters and assisting the ground staff with the all-important divotting of the pitch.
He also gave his time free of charge to drive the minibus for the FGR Academy, ensuring the players could travel to and from away fixtures. Neil was simply a regular fixture at FGR in every sense of the word.
Dane Vince, CEO, said: “I saw Neil at almost every home game, always clearly energised and enthusiastic about the performance and result on the pitch; and never shy in telling me (or anyone!) what he thought of the team’s performance. I also had the privilege of working with Neil at FGR when I joined the club; he was always there to help out behind the scenes, always willing to get stuck in and bring his passion to every day. He was a friend and dedicated supporter of FGR, and will be sorely missed by everyone connected at the club”
For tomorrow's game against Wealdstone in the FA Trophy at 3:00 pm, the FGR Supporters Club are organising a minute’s applause in the 77th minute of the game, to celebrate the 77 years of his life and show our appreciation. We invite all supporters to join us in the minute's applause.
Everyone at Forest Green Rovers wishes to express their condolences to his family, friends and everyone who knew him.
