Port Vale: Ex-players chip in to help fans stay dry

DISABLED fans at Port Vale will enjoy added protection from the harsh cold and wet weather this winter thanks to the generosity of the club's Ex-Players Association.

The association has donated £528 to help buy 12 blue waterproof hooded head-to-toe Mac covers, which have been supplied by Hanley-based firm Wardles and will be distributed to disabled fans at home games.

Nine-year-old Port Vale fan George Chapman is pictured with members of the Ex-Players Association. Picture: Alex Severn

However, Wardles effectively bought three of the fleece-lined Macs in offering the association a knock-down price for the consignment of capes.

John Poole, who made 39 appearances for Vale after making his debut for the club in April 1956, said: "When we have raised some money we approach the club to ask if they need anything.

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"Providing these covers seemed like a great idea because they will offer more protection from the conditions to fans in the disabled stand at Vale Park.

"I saw of a few of the covers handed to a young disabled fan and an elderly fan at the Torquay last game month and they looked delighted with them.

"I'd like to thank Wardles for giving us such a great offer and the way they gave the association such an informative demonstration of the product."

Poole formed the Ex-Players Association with another former Vale goalkeeper, Ken Hancock, seven years ago, and the group boasts around 20 members.

The association organises fund-raising events such as race and memorabilia nights, and has previously donated cash in a number of areas, including the Sproson Fund and to buy gates for the Lorne Street stand at Vale Park.