By Rory McKee
A LIFELONG Manchester United supporter from Newtownards was recognised within the Premier League club’s official matchday programme last month.
Jim Sandford, who has held a season ticket at Old Trafford for the last 30 years, was the subject of a two-page article in an edition of United Review – produced for the clash between Manchester United and Everton at Old Trafford on November 24.
The article expressed gratitude to Jim, a church organist at Christ Church in Carrowdore described as ‘modest’ by friends, for his tireless service to the SuperCupNI youth football tournament – formally known as the Milk Cup – after stepping away from his duties after almost 40 years.
Manchester United’s academy teams have a proud history at the competition, first sending a side to compete on the north Antrim coast in 1989.
They lifted the trophy in 1991 with a team containing several members of the group which became known as the Class of ‘92, including David Beckham, Nicky Butt, Gary Neville and Paul Scholes.
The club’s Academy player liaison officer, Dave Bushell, said Jim had been ‘instrumental’ in the running of the competition and added: “He’s a real stalwart of Man United. Fancy having a season ticket and you fly over from Belfast every other week!”
