This coming Saturday Runcorn Town Life Member and Committee Member Eddie Smith will watch his last Town match before he heads off to settle in Australia.
After taking in Town's game at home to Atherton Collieries, Eddie will say his farewells to the Town faithful before he flies out of Heathrow on Monday 7th for the long haul trip to Perth, Western Australia. Eddie emigrated a couple of years ago but has now taken up permanent residency, and will be living near his daughter and grandchildren.
Roy Roberts, Runcorn Town Club President paid this tribute to Eddie.
"We are shortly going to lose a backbone of the club when Eddie finally moves full time to Australia this month. Club Chairman Tony Riley reckons we will need at least five extra committee members to replace him. Eddie will be sorely missed in the Pavilions Club where he often stands drinks for the regulars after home matches.
"During his playing days he represented Burnley, Cheshire Police and many local clubs. He even told Howard Kendall at our Sportsman's Dinner that he played against him during his Everton days, and although Eddie remembered Howard, Howard didn't remember Eddie. If anyone out there played with or against Eddie or even watched him play then you must get in touch with us. A reward will be made to you.
"Seriously, who would not miss Eddie? As our latest life member he has decided to retain his position on the clubs committee stating "It's not as though I'm on the other side of the world"
"Only a fortnight ago in Pavilions he proudly stood at the bar hosting the Dunston supporters, and in good voice he unsuccessfully tried to out sing the 'true North of England' fans. Sportingly they let him fight his corner, and they also saved him a small fortune as he no longer needs to return for the FA Vase final at Wembley!
"It is a rarely known fact that Eddie is the most successful manager in the club's history. When Peter Nolan left the club, Eddie personally visited every player to ensure their commitment and took charge of the team in a league game at Castrol Social. Town won 5-1, with the committee appointing a permanent manager before the next game, giving Eddie a 100% success rate as manager!
Town Programme Editor Alan Bennett said: "I personally have only known Eddie a year or so and what a larger than life character he is too. I have had some great times at matches both home and away with him.
"I know I speak on behalf of every single person involved in Runcorn Town both past and present in wishing Eddie and his good lady wife sincere and very best wishes for their future down under.
"No doubt e-mails will be flying back and forth from him as he sees our results. A genuine and sincere man who always has the best interests of the club at heart and I for one have learnt a lot from Eddie for which I thank him.
"He will be missed around the clubhouse and at games, and has promised to come back whenever he can. No doubt the local hostelries will be glad of the input over the bar."