Arnold pensioner, 91, given VIP treatment by Nottingham Forest as dream to cheer on Reds in Premier League comes true

He is one of their oldest and most devoted fans.

94-year-old Harry Thomas who is a resident at Coppice Lodge care home in Arnold was recently whisked away to the City Ground to cheer on ‘The Reds’ in the Premier League.

Harry has been a Nottingham Forest fan for as long as he can remember and attended his first match when he was six years old in 1936.

“I was drawn to the red kit,” he said.

After hearing Harry talk so fondly about his beloved team, and how he had never had the opportunity to see them in the Premier League, staff at Coppice Lodge arranged for him to attend a match in the Executive Box as a VIP.

Staff surprised Harry with a brand-new Nottingham Forest shirt and his ticket. He was accompanied by Keighley Storer, a member of the Coppice Lodge team who shares Harry’s love for the football club.

On match day, Harry and Keighley were treated to a meal and drinks with the other VIP guests.

‘I haven’t been to a match since the late 80s when Brian Clough was manager – he was my favourite manager,” Harry said.

“My favourite player was always Des Walker; I always remember chanting ‘you’ll never beat Des Walker’ with the other fans.”

‘It was just amazing; I can’t believe Coppice Lodge has arranged this for me – I’ve finally seen my team in the Premier League. I have been so well looked after since moving here, I’ll be forever grateful.”

Sarah Barnes, the home manager at Coppice Lodge, added: “Being able to make our residents dreams and wishes come true is an absolute pleasure, and to see Harry’s face light up when we gave him the tickets was a memory we’ll all cherish.

“We’d like to thank everyone at the City Grounds for helping us to make Harry’s day perfect.”