Football club to be proud of

I was pleased to read a positive letter concerning Shrewsbury Town's new football stadium at Oteley Road (February 28).

Sheila Downes makes some very valid points, many of which I can identify with. I am an "exiled" Shrewsbury Town supporter, born in Shropshire and now living in the North West. I am a part-time teacher, a mother and a grandmother.

Like Sheila, I am hardly a threatening presence as I walk around the town in my Town colours. In fact, I find that a lot of people I meet in Shrewsbury are happy to engage me in conversation, and to enquire about the fortunes of Shrewsbury Town FC.

During the few years I have been travelling from my home near Wigan to Shrewsbury to support the team of my youth, I have met some delightful fellow supporters, of all ages.

I have met with nothing but politeness and friendliness. I have made several valuable friends in and around Gay Meadow, and have never met any trouble makers.

I now sit in the Wakeman Stand with my grand-daughter and four other women. As Sheila Downes points out, the new stadium, with its improved facilities, is bound to be an asset to Shrewsbury.

The ceremonies that mark the farewell to Gay Meadow, and the advent of a new era in the history of Shrewsbury Town are events that will generate national interest, and draw people to the town.

Shrewsbury Town Football Club has a long and venerable history. Surely the town needs to celebrate this. Shrewsbury's new football stadium should prove to open an exciting new chapter for the town.

Floreat Salopia!

Pauline Griffiths, Wigan