A lifelong Wycombe Wanderers supporter enjoyed a day to remember when two former Chairboys players paid him a surprise visit at The Heights, celebrating a family connection to the club that stretches back decades.
The Heights care home was delighted to welcome former Wycombe Wanderers players Keith Samuels and Vince Faulkner who played for the club during the 1960s, for an afternoon filled with football memories and stories from the club they all love.
For Clive, supporting Wycombe Wanderers has always been part of who he is. His passion for the club began in childhood through his father, John Simmonds, whose dedication behind the scenes helped shape the club's history.
John devoted years to supporting Wycombe Wanderers, walking thousands of miles across Buckinghamshire selling tickets for the club's lottery and recruiting volunteers. During one of the club's most challenging financial periods, the lottery became a vital source of income, and former colleagues credited John's tireless efforts with helping secure the club's future.
Inspired by his father's commitment, Clive has remained a devoted supporter throughout his life, Clive follows every match by listening to live commentary on a radio provided by The Bucks Talking Newspaper and proudly displays Wycombe Wanderers memorabilia in his room.
Knowing how much the club means to him, the team at The Heights worked with the Wycombe Wanderers Ex-Players Association to arrange a surprise visit from Keith and Vince. To mark the occasion, staff swapped their uniforms for football shirts, creating a matchday atmosphere.
Keith Samuels, former Wycombe Wanderers striker and Deputy Chair of the Ex-Players Association, said:
I came up here on an invite and was pleased to see Clive, l hope he enjoyed the visit. I was happy to be here at The Heights and seeing staff in football shirts. It was a great time. Thank you so much for having us.
Vince Faulkner former Wycombe Wanderers defender, Treasurer of the Ex-Players Association and Membership Secretary added:
This Venture via Wycombe Wanders Foundation at one of their special event attended by the Talking Newspaper represented by Sue Longman (who always provided The Talking News on sports to Clive through Queen one of the Activities Team), who found 2 Ex-players and asked if they were aware about John Simmonds, which led to this attached article and a visit to The Heights Nursing Home to see Clive and we were happily welcomed by staff, had a great visit with Clive.
Queen Ike, Activities Team at The Heights, said:
Visiting Clive during Wellbeing visit and seeing how relaxed he gets while listening to football matches on the Radio or Television or during conversations about football make me understand how football is important to him and it creates a calm atmosphere for Clive.
Sunny Salin, Home Manager at The Heights, said:
Football has always been a huge part of Clive's identity, but what makes this story particularly special is his family's remarkable connection to Wycombe Wanderers. Being able to bring former players to the home to celebrate that legacy means so much.