On Saturday, the appearance of Pershall Park for spectators was changed for ever when the 'The Shed' which has provided some level of cover for supporters for 40 years was demolished.

In recent times, the covered area was becoming more and more structurally unsafe and the club committee took the decision that it should be taken down to avoid potential risk. The curtailment of the season this week provided an early opportunity for the work to take place.

Over the years, Eagles supporters have taken the opportunity to stand there to watch games and its close proximity to the dugouts allowed them to voice their opinions towards the Eagles management. Long standing regulars will recall Alan Forrester, Reg Beeston and Peter Moss (all, sadly, no longer with us) being there, rain or shine and not holding back if things were not going well. As you would imagine, plenty of memories have been recalled, many which were quite humourous .

Former manager, Kenny Roberts, said: "Some memories gone with the removal - my fan club in the shed! I used to walk across the pitch before the game to the dugout and every week would be the same - here comes the useless f**ker. I learned in time that they quite liked me".

Dave Reading, a former player, said: "Don't worry Ken, they only shouted that when I was near you.. coincidence!".

Former Eagles legend goalkeeper, Sid Kelly, who is now on the club committee and was, shall we say, of a rather stocky build during his playing days recalled being christened 'the flying pig' and remembered that "many home truths were shouted out of that stand".

Former player, Chris Morris, recalled: "Get him off, he's useless was shouted quite frequently".

Keith Storey said: " That's funny, all of those comments were made about me - often in one game!"

Tim Buckley said: "I can't remember getting much stick from them", which prompted the response - "Another blue eyed boy!"

Kenny again: "Don't think anyone escaped their acid tongues except Terry (Rickards) and Neil (Alexander) who were their favourites. I remember naming Terry and Neil as subs one week as they were late turning up. I needed a thick skin that day!"

In spite of all the above, Alan, Reg and Pete were all keen followers of the Eagles and are remembered fondly to this day.

Of the stand itself, Rod Swaries recalled: "Ernie Grimley got us that stand when we first moved to Pershall (back in 1981) - an ex bus shelter if I remember rightly. Ernie worked on the Council grounds section and served as unofficial groundsman in our early days at Pershall, must be 40+ years ago. From a very modest start, we had big ambitions and look at Pershall Park now".

So many memories from what has been a landmark part of our ground for so many years - gone but will never be forgotten. In line with recent ground improvements over the last few years, the club are looking to replace the dugouts before the start of the new season (hopefully in August) and will also look to provide alternative spectator cover on the far side of the ground at some point in the future.