FOOTBALL fans young and old are beginning to miss their beloved Colchester United.

Karen Thompson, from Wivenhoe, sent The Gazette a picture of her grandson Bobby Harris and his pal Harry in their favourite U's shirts before they had to begin social distancing.

The pair, along with Karen's daughter Faye Thompson, take on the 72-mile round trip from Ongar to see their heroes for every home game at the JobServe Community Stadium.

Their favourite player is midfield maestro Harry Pell.

And their dedication has been inspired by Mrs Thompson who began following the team when she was a youngster.

"They always say I am to blame," she said.

"I used to cycle up to Layer Road when I was younger and got to stand behind the goal for a shilling.

"I'm a retired nurse, and must admit when I was training in Norwich I went to watch them a few times - but never Ipswich!

"The boys come to the home games and we go to some away games as well.

"They all just miss their football so much - hopefully the U's will be fine but I worry about all the small community clubs."

  • Are any other U's fans going to extreme length because they are missing football? Send us your pictures to chad.nugent@newsquest.co.uk with a few details.