Taking a Bostik Bow: Chalfont St Peter

In the latest of our series introducing our new or returning clubs through the eyes of one of their own, Benny Goodman brings us tales of a lifetime following Chalfont St Peter.

With the expansion of our League (and the alterations which the FA have made to the pyramid) we have a number of clubs who are entirely new to us, haven’t been part of our setup for rather a long time, or are returning to us after some time away. We decided that the best way to introduce- or to reintroduce- them to Bostik League supporters was through the eyes of one of their own.

On this occasion Benny Goodman is the King of Chalfont swing!

How long have you been a supporter of Chalfont St Peter?

I have been a Supporter for most of my life, watching my first match back in the season 1966/67.

Tell us how you became a fan? What attracted you to the club
initially?

It all started one Saturday when my mother sent me to the village to get some fruit. On the way back from the shops I passed by Mill Meadow , known in those days as The Playing Fields, and saw that a match was on. I stayed to watch. Chalfont got thrashed 7-0 by Hampton in a Spartan League match. After that Saturday afternoons were booked, although to this day I am not quite sure why!

Probably one of the reasons was the fact that I, even though only 11 at the time, was made to feel welcome at the club.

And what is it about the club that has kept you there since?

About a month after watching my first game, I was asked by the then Chairman whether I would like to help doing the gate on match days. I, feeling very proud to be asked, immediately agreed. Three years later I began writing match reports under the auspice of the Press Secretary at the time, Ron Butler, eventually taking over his role. I would hang up match posters around the village, match programmes were prepared on an old printing machine at school. On Saturday morning I would get the pitch and dressing rooms ready. When I left the UK in 1974 contact remained intact. My involvement became more intense again when Denis Mair became Chairman of the Club. I am currently the webmaster and senior trustee of the Club.

What does a typical home matchday look like for you?

These days, a match day is Twitter time, great technology! Some clubs have their own TV or radio stations, so if we are playing one of them, then I am stuck in front of the computer. On those occasions I get back to the UK I am usually at the ground at around 1pm, ready to help where needed.

Is there a moment in the history of your club that supporters always talk about? What would it be- and why is it important to you all?

There are two highlights that will always stand out. The first is us being the last winners of the Berks and Bucks Benevolent Cup, besting the mighty Slough Town in the final. The other, and undoubtedly the biggest achievement the club has ever had, was reaching the semi final of the FA Vase. In two tight games against Glossop North End, we finally lost out 6-5 on penalties. Three seconded had separated us from an appearance at Wembley. To this day it still hurts, but all at the club are mightily proud of what was, and has been achieved.

For the benefit of those who haven't visited before, describe your ground.

A picturesque ground sitting at the foot of the Chilterns. There is a nostalgic charm about the place, especially for those that have been associated with the club over the years. But we have come a long way from The Playing Field. Mill Meadow boasts a lovely 230 seat stand with an exquisite view of the Chilterns....if the match is boring!

A very friendly atmosphere and very pleasant club members and supports. A lovely bar and the not to forget Pearl and her team of kitchen tigers. You will never be hungry.

If an away fan was travelling to your ground for the first time, how would you recommend they got there? Tell us about parking and public transport.

The nearest train station is Gerrards Cross. A few buses run from there to Chalfont St. Peter or you walk it in 20 minutes. A car park is available in the village centre, and from there it is a two minute walk to the ground.

Are there any local sights or amenities you'd recommend they visit?Tourist attractions, pubs etc?

There are several pubs in the village. In the vicinity you can visit Milton’s Cottage, the Chilterns Open Air Museum or the Model village at Beaconscot.

Finally, pie, burger or pint? What would you recommend, and why?

Definitely one of Pearl’s burgers. Not only are they superb but you will always get a smile and a chuckle.

Where next?

Bar move pre-season to Northolt Home matches moved to protect the pitch
Bostik Supporters Predictions 18/19: Worthing Whether a Rebel or a Mackerel Man, Ben Newman is a committed supporter of Worthing. Here's his look back- and ahead.

Chalfont St Peter Video playlist

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