The Radfords Recent Weekend At Edgar Street

The Radfords were at Edgar Street recently. Joyce Powell looks back at their visit.

 
Several phone calls have been received from the Radfords since their recent visit for the reopening of Radford's Bar. It had been repainted and the lighting improved thanks to a sponsorship with Westons Cider, it seemed fitting for Helen Thomas and Ronnie Radford to cut the ribbon. 

Martin Brain Hold The Ribbon Ready For Ronnie Radford And Helen Thomas

After an eventful weekend they were truly amazed at their reception. Small children asking for Ronnie's autograph, obviously heard of from older members of the family. They were as thrilled as if they'd just met their idol. Watched Ronnie squat down to their level and talk individually to each one, what a story they will have to tell, so personal for each one. What a caring man. No wonder he could barely move a step before another group was queuing to either shake his hand or request his signature.

It's 45 years since that goal and yet supporters young and old still get excited with visits. The singing of " There's only one Ronnie Radford," as the tape was cut was so well timed. He and Annie were overwhelmed with this, and again they were youngsters (older youngsters! mostly Meadow Enders). Thanks lads. Unrehearsed happenings are far more effective, it added much to the whole occasion for the Radfords. As they both said they didn't think their visits could get any better, but this surpassed all others.
 

It was sheer coincidence that sitting near them in B block were 2 also much loved ex players, both goalkeepers...Pete Isaac and Tommy Hughes. More exchanged memories and laughter. Sitting next to Annie one would have thought her an avid local HFC supporter, she's not known to be a quiet lady and was just as insensed as everyone else with the ref's one-sided awarding of free kicks. They love Hereford and obviously the feeling is mutual. They both enjoyed the match and were genuinely thrilled when we equalised.
 

Ronnie Radford With Matt Healey

They had both attended the match at Wembley, savouring the whole occasion. As Ronnie said the experience of being the onlooker rather than the looked-at player was very special. Couldn't keep them quiet that day, they were as up for the match as the rest of us. To see the sea of thousands of supporters in 'Hereford white' astounded them, and of course the visit of a our handsome mascot, a real live Hereford Bull. Regardless of the result it was another chapter in their fantastic Memory Book.
 

Prior to the match, over coffee we covered many topics including that special Hereford  song by the late Danny Lee. It was fitting that his son was in Radfords when the whole wall montage of THAT goal was being viewed at the far end by the Radfords. Grabbing his hand and giving no option but to follow.... his face when he recognised Ronnie was a picture I shall forever treasure. An example of a true HFC supporter.
 

To complete the day we made our way to Belmont, to the massive advertising board of Radford Gardens. Nibbo arrived and photos were taken of Ronnie, and the hoarding, the man responsible for the naming of the area. His name will live on in this county. A fitting end to a fabulous day, thanks to all of YOU.

---