David Hembrough 100 club chairman left with Jennifer Whalley, Rovers Commercial and David Jennings.
David’s membership of the Rovers 100 club began in the 1977/78 season. He was one of 96 members! He joined along with his great friend Peter Lamster and Bill Isherwood. The chairman of the 100 club was Mr W Fox who later became the chairman of BRFC and president of the football league.
David comments that, the first 100 club away trip that I attended was to Oldham Athlectic where the Rovers won 2-0 with Jack Lewis scoring. Lunch was at the Midway Hotel, Castleton at a cost of £3 per head. After the game we returned to the Bulls Head at Wilpshire for dinner. A great first trip.
In March 1982 I was approached by Bill Fox to be co-opted onto the committee, not realising that by July, I would become secretary. What an Honour
During this period the 100 Club Lounge was moved from under John Howarth’s office on Nuttall Street to the newly refurbished lounge and bar adjacent to Box A. This refurbishment was paid for by the 100 club and the only place on Ewood where alcohol could be served. It was also used by the players after the games. The atmosphere was especially good after a victory for the Rovers.
As well as helping to arrange away trips, sportman evenings, boxing evenings and ladies nights, I was responsible for letting out the 100 Club for social events. This meant I had to attend the magistrates court in Blackburn every year to apply for a licence to serve alcohol in the 100club lounge. On the bench was a season ticket holder for Burnley who, thanks to Terry Ibbotson our solicitor “Reluctantly” agreed.
It is difficult to recall the many highlights and sometimes the lowlights of my time as a member and secretary of the 100 club, however there are three stand out events.
In 1987 the 100 club took 140 members and associate members and guests to the Full Members cup final at Wembley. After an excellent lunch at the Hilton Hotel in Watford the day was made by Colin Henry’s great goal and Vince O’keefe’s heroics in the goal. As it was Mothering Sunday I took my mother!
Who will forget the last match of season at Anfield when despite losing 2-1 we were crowned Premiership Champions. A wonderfull day and just reward for Jack Walker, Kenny Dalglish, staff and players.
A trip to Cardiff for the league cup final against Tottenham Hotspur in 2002 was another great day for the Club. What an atmosphere! Two great goals from Matt Janson & Andy Cole overcame the mighty Spurs.
The 100 club still thrives today thanks to the support given to the Chairman ,Treasurer committee members & the 100 club members both past and present .
Long may it Continue.