Two long-standing supporters and helpers of Cheltenham Town Football Club have sadly passed away in recent days.
Both had followed the club for a long time dating way back to the Southern League era and had given many years of dedicated service to the club.
Dave Fardon was a matchday stretcher bearer at the stadium, one of the helpers tasked with removing injured players from the pitch, carrying medical equipment and preparing the medical staff area between the dugouts. He sadly passed away earlier this month after a period of illness.
This morning we were also given the sad news that Ian Clifford had also passed away.
Ian served as one of the wearers of the Whaddney the Robin costume and was among the first to don furry bird outfit when it was created in the early 2000s. He entertained thousands of supporters over the years at home and away matches as well as play-off finals, big Cup games and all manner of other events.
Ian had also served local football as a referee before becoming Whaddney, whose outfit he wore to hundreds of matches, community appearances and even mascot competitions.
Both Dave and Ian will be sadly missed by everyone at Cheltenham Town and we extend our heartfelt condolences to their friends and families.