IT will be a long way from Cork, Eire, to St George’s Lane on Saturday, but for Leo McMahon, the ‘craic’ will be well worth it. Because the lad who was born in Avon Road, Ronkswood, Worcester, but is now senior reporter on the Southern Star newspaper , is one of Worcester City FC’s keenest fans.

Mr McMahon moved to Ireland with his Cork-born parents in 1975, but has always kept in touch with City and takes in a game when he returns to Worcestershire for holidays. “I just had to be there for the club’s last home game,” he said.

Born in 1956, he attended his first City game in the mid-1960s, against Wisbech in the Southern League, and was hooked from day one.

“Crowds were big then and City had aspirations to get into the Football League and even signed ex-England international Gerry Hitchens,” he said. “Every second Saturday, without fail, I would go to the home games and the occasional away one. “The B stand was my favourite viewing spot. There was always a great atmosphere, especially under lights. I recall buying Bovril on sale at half-time on freezing nights to warm the hands and body.”

Memorable matches included beating Hereford United, with John Charles in their forward line, on Good Friday in front of a crowd of more than 5,000, a thrilling Southern League Cup final against Weymouth and derbies with Kidderminster Harriers.

He is linking up on Saturday with pals and from Avon Road, St George’s RC Primary and Sacred Heart College in Droitwich before and after the game.

“Visiting the Lane will bring back many happy memories and hearing the final whistle for the final time will be emotional for me and every other supporter but I wish the club well,” he said. “A successful club is good for a town and I hope gets the support it deserves and one day takes a long overdue place in the Football League.”