Morecambe FC Former Players' Association: Cherishing Shrimps' Heritage and Heroes
The Morecambe FC Former Players' Association, founded by Roy Newby, plays a vital role in preserving the club's rich history and honouring its past heroes. This esteemed group ensures that the legacies of those who graced the Shrimps' shirt are never forgotten, fostering a unique bond across generations of players and supporters.
For any club with a storied past, remembering the legends who once pulled on the shirt is paramount. Here at Morecambe FC, our heritage is vibrantly kept alive through the Morecambe Football Club Former Players' Association (MFCFPA). Established by our revered life vice-president, Roy Newby, the MFCFPA serves a dual purpose: to commemorate the Shrimps' departed players and staff, ensuring their contributions are never forgotten, and to create a vital social hub for those who once wore the famous red and white.
The genesis of this vital organisation was marked by a memorable inaugural dinner held at The Globe on Saturday, 24th July 2010. It was an evening steeped in emotion and camaraderie, bringing together figures from across the club's rich tapestry. Among the honorees was Mrs. Margaret Duxbury, the widow of the immensely talented Geoff Duxbury. A star midfielder in the 1960s, Geoff's promising career was tragically cut short at just 28, leaving an indelible mark on the club's history. His memory, alongside that of other fallen heroes, is lovingly preserved by the association. The dinner also celebrated Jim Edgerley, a true FA Cup hero whose iconic goal against Shrewsbury Town in the third round back in 1961 remains a cherished moment in Morecambe folklore. These poignant tributes underscore the association's commitment to honouring both the joy and sorrow intertwined with the Shrimps' journey.
The success of that first gathering set the tone for the association's ongoing mission. The dinner saw a fantastic turnout, with players spanning multiple eras of Morecambe FC's existence, each bringing their own stories and memories to share. From Graham Brayshaw and Alan Coe to Joe Fell, Charlie Lambert, and the ever-present John “Ben” Davies, the room buzzed with nostalgic chatter. Legends like John Cozens, John Coward, Paul Gilchrist, Bobby Hoy, Steve Fitton, Mark Blundell, and Mark Taylor were also in attendance, painting a vivid picture of the club's evolution through the decades. Such events are more than just social occasions; they are living testaments to the bonds forged on the pitch and the enduring spirit of the Shrimps family. It's a chance for the old guard to reconnect, swap tales from their playing days, and witness firsthand the continued passion for the club they represented with such pride.
Indeed, the MFCFPA is an invaluable asset to Morecambe FC. It's a cornerstone that connects our glorious past with our vibrant present, ensuring that the names and feats of those who built this club are eternally celebrated. For the faithful on the terraces, it’s a comforting reminder that while faces on the pitch may change, the heart and soul of the Shrimps, deeply rooted in the legacies of these former players, beat as strongly as ever. Let's continue to champion this association, ensuring our heroes are always remembered and their stories inspire future generations to don the Morecambe shirt with pride.