Something new, iconic and unique in the SCFL greeted Lancing FC supporters when Culver Road opened to them at the start of the season. Thanks to the alertness of stalwart Vice President and committee member, Terry Cartwright, a Market Style Barrow was spotted on the internet. Terry’s sharp brain, identified its potential as a Merchandise stall and he quickly arranged its purchase. A neighbour transported it from Hastings to the garage of Vice-Chairman, Barry Sutton, for safe keeping. Terry devoted his spare time, in a labour of love, to refurbishing it in Lancing colours of blue and yellow and adapting it for use. Four coats of paint, slat boarding, and Perspex weather boarding were fitted. A new tyre and inner tube were added, enabling the stall to be wheeled by a group of committee volunteers to Culver Road. Lighting was fitted to give it a bright and enticing appearance. Terry conceived the stall as a source of income and a variety of Lancing FC merchandise (e.g. scarves, beanie hats, mugs, badges, signed footballs) can be purchased.
This is yet a further example of Terry’s dedication to his beloved Lancing FC and of his public-spirited nature. Terry and wife Val moved to Lancing in 1996. He drove the Brooklands train for 6 years and also became a volunteer for RVS.
He started watching Lancing FC in 2004 and became a Committee member and Vice President, helping to raise funds by running bingo sessions. His contribution to Lancing FC was recognised in 2018 when he was named as Sussex FA and McDonalds grassroots supporter of the year. He has been described as a force of nature and his voice can be heard at matches calling out “come on you yellows”. He has worked exceptionally hard to attract support from local traders and has been responsible for raising substantial funds, without which Lancing FC would not have been financially stable. It is no understatement to say that Lancing FC owes a great debt to Terry. He has become a legend at Culver Road and is highly respected by players, management and fellow supporters.
Terry, in common with many others at Lancing FC has to find something else to occupy his time now that lock down has brought football at our level to a halt. Lancing were then in good form, having progressed to the second round of Build Base FA Vase, when they will host Edgware Town or Worthing United. Players will have to find individual ways to maintain their fitness so that they will be prepared for the return of football, which we hope will be in early December.
Our thanks to Dave Wilmott for his article, which can also be found in the Lancing & Sompting Inside Magazine for December.
