A level playing field for footballing success

IT may be a cliché but there's absolutely no doubt about the power of sport to bring people together.

- Alex Baker

About half of the entire population of Aldershot travelled to see the Shots’ comprehensive win over Spennymoor Town in their first ever visit to Wembley.

Some 20,000 fans enjoyed a fantastic match.

It's no exaggeration to say that I'll never forget that glorious moment when Josh Barrett slotted home the third goal to put the result beyond doubt, and the stadium - festooned with red and blue - erupted.

I'll also always remember the following Monday night as thousands more lined the streets to watch the team parade the FA Trophy through the town centre. It was a moment to thank Tommy Widdrington, the staff and team at Aldershot Town, not only for their well-deserved victory, but also for uniting the community and fostering a genuine sense of joy and pride.