The long goodbye

[dave.woodhall]

Mr Russell, and an era now ending.

https://heroesandvillains.info/2023/02/20/the-long-goodbye/

[LeonW]

A poignant read. I’m sorry it couldn’t have been a better send off for Mr Russell.

[ROBBO]

I would urge you to re-consider, as a person of similar age I believe it is the mere challenge of the expedition that you will come to miss, what will you replace it with? as a standing witton Lane regular for decades I only wish it were possible to make that journey with you. Witton Lane forever.

[olaftab]

Another excellent piece and I have no doubt you will return for special occasions.

[eamonn]

What a depressing end to a lifetime of Villa story. It can't be the finale, though.

[AV82EC]

How very Villa as a send off, losing to two goals both scored in injury time. 

[Dr Butler]

so sad to hear that that is it John, will he still will be writing his really excellent articles ?

UTV
The Doc

[simon ward 50]

There is some grit in my eye I think? :'(

[ventnorVillain]

I think I've swallowed something that doesn't agree with me judging by the lump in my throat. It reminds me of the last game i attended at VP with my dad who was 84 at the time. It was against Everton and in true Villa tradition we missed a penalty, a host of other good chances and lost 2-0 to two late goals. At the end dad asked if it was okay if we just sat in our seats on the Holte End for a while. I asked him if he was feeling alright and he said that he just wanted to spend a couple of minutes soaking in the wonders of VP and reflecting on so many happy memories since 1938. On the way out he turned for one last look and said that he didn't think he would be passing this way again. Sadly, he was right.

[LeeB]

John, if you're reading this, thank you, your pieces have done more to inform me of the history of the club I live more than any other person.

[Footy-Vill]

Thanks for your poignant write up.
Much appreciated to read this and experience

All the Best.
Up The Villa.

[N'ZMAV]

it's the hope that kills you.

[JD]

A brilliantly written piece, one of his best. I do hope this isn't the end but if it is, what a great read to end on.

Mr Russell is a legend.

[clash city rocker]

Never say never. Villa Park is the   one place in my life I would miss more than anything. Its the 8th wonder of the world.

[The Edge]

That was a lovely read. Thank you Mr Russell hopefully you will make it to Villa Park again. I think you have invoked a lot of memories in a lot of us you certainly did for me. As a lad we used to walk to Villa Park from our house in Saltley along the number 8 bus route and that walk across Aston Park was pure joy. My younger brother and me would run down the hill and our dad would be shouting at us to be careful. Great memories.
UTV