For many supporters, Grimsby Town is a passion that lasts a lifetime. For Brian Nicholson, that passion extends far beyond the matchday experience.
As part of National Volunteers’ Week, we spoke to Brian about his love for the Mariners, the work he does behind the scenes and why helping the club means so much to him. A lifelong Grimsby Town supporter, Brian has been volunteering with the club for around five years, helping wherever he can to support the day-to-day running of operations.
Whether it’s carrying out maintenance work at the training ground, helping prepare facilities during the close season, or leading stadium and training ground tours, Brian’s contribution can be found in many different areas of the club.
“I help out at the training ground on maintenance and doing little jobs,” he explained. “During the close season there’s a bit of painting, clearing gutters and simple tasks like that. I also do ground tours for people and companies, as well as training ground visits. But really, if I’m asked to do things, I’m quite happy to help.”
Brian first became involved through his work with the Mariners Trust before gradually taking on additional responsibilities around the club. Like many volunteers, he simply saw opportunities to help and stepped forward when needed.
“I started out being involved with the Mariners Trust Board,” he said. “Then I’ve sort of got involved in other areas, filling gaps really for the club.”
His willingness to lend a hand comes from a deep-rooted connection to Grimsby Town that stretches back decades. The club has been a constant throughout his life and remains an important part of who he is.
“I’ve been a fan all my life,” Brian said. “It’s been a big part of my life. My family would all say that sometimes I think the football club comes in front of them all!”
He added: “I love the football club. I’m lucky to have seen the club playing in much better times in the Championship, where we’d watch matches and think, ‘Wow, we’re watching something special.’ I really hope we can get back to better times and if me helping in any way enables that slightly, then that’s good.”
Like every supporter, Brian has built up a collection of memories over the years. From famous cup victories to promotion celebrations, he has witnessed some of the most memorable moments in the club’s history.
Among the highlights are victories at some of English football’s most iconic grounds.
“Winning at Goodison Park when Paul Wilkinson scored the winner was something very special,” he recalled. “Paul was actually in my class at school. Winning at Anfield with John McDermott scoring, beating Aston Villa in the League Cup and beating Sheffield United 4-0 on the last day of the season when we went up in 1979 are all memories that stand out.”
He also speaks fondly of the players who helped shape those memories.
“Joe Waters, Trevor Whymark, Kevin Drinkell, Tony Ford and Clive Mendonca are just some of the great players I’ve watched over the years,” he said.
As Brian looks ahead, his hopes remain the same as every Grimsby Town supporter’s – to see the club continue progressing and creating new memories for future generations. Volunteers like Brian play a vital role in helping make that possible.
From the maintenance work that keeps facilities operating smoothly to welcoming supporters and visitors on tours, his efforts often happen quietly behind the scenes, but they make a significant difference. As we celebrate National Volunteers’ Week, we would like to thank Brian for his dedication, commitment and continued support of Grimsby Town Football Club. People like Brian are an invaluable part of our club, and we are incredibly grateful for everything he does.
Thank you, Brian.
UTM
