Leaving Manchester for Fife

What it meant to Colin Johnston to 'Walk down the Halbeath Road'

There are a lot of very dedicated Pars fans out there, and Colin Johnston is certainly one of them. Colin who has supported DAFC for over 25 years, gets to as many home games as he can, despite having to travel all the way from his home in Manchester. He spoke about his typical matchday experience...

'I moved to Newcastle in 2004 to study acting, and that's when the long trips started. After graduating from Newcastle College then Sunderland University, I moved to Manchester in 2012 when I got signed up by an agent, and I'm now pursuing an acting career.'

'I decided I wasn't going to give up my season ticket. I really enjoy attending games, watching the team win, and of course watching my favourite player Ryan Thomson.'

'My matchday starts at 5am when I get up and get ready, making sure my bag's packed, my phone is charged and my Pars scarf is handy. The taxi picks me up at six to take me to Picadilly station, where I buy my ticket, grab some breakfast and board the 07.45 train north.'

'I arrive in Dunfermline around 12:45 and another taxi takes me to East End Park. I've time for a wee chat with my old friend Marvyn Stewart, and I often bump into Bob Garmory. With pie, programme and half-time draw ticket purchased, I take my place alongside friends Ali Carstairs and Gillian Cosgrove to watch the match. I've known Ali for nearly 30 years, and we always have plenty to discuss!'

'At full time, it's a taxi back to the station, pick up the Manchester train in Edinburgh, then taxi or bus home at around 11pm for a well deserved rest.'

It was a great surprise for Colin to be met on arrival in Dunfermline, by so many Pars fans, before our recent home game against Forfar Athletic.

Last word on that subject goes to Colin: 'Walking down the Halbeath road with friends and fans I'd never met before is a very special memory. Having spina bifida hydrocephalus doesn't stop me ever, I see it as a motivation.'

If you have a special story you would like fellow Pars to hear, or go above and beyond to follow the team, our club would love to know about it. Please contact directors@dafc.co.uk

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