Words: John Baron
Photographs: Simon Cullingworth
It was a blustery and showery late April day which required blue and white woolly hats and scarves rather than the sun caps and shades of just seven days earlier.
But fire twirlers, free food and free entry for 1,500 hardy souls brought Farsley together and created a warm carnival atmosphere as Farsley Celtic won a richly-deserved promotion.
It was a day which perfectly captured the spirit of family club Farsley Celtic, which has its heart firmly in the community, with its myriad of junior teams supporting youngsters and numerous community initiatives.
And it was a fitting end to a tumultuous week at the club which saw chairman John Palmer and his family stand down from the board.
John, whose connections with Farley Celtic date back 47 years, rescued the club from dark depths of administration, reforming initially as Farsley AFC.
As chairman – and with support from his wife Margaret and his family – he’s seen Farsley go from strength to strength over the past nine years.
I’ve only met John and Margaret once – but their love and passion for this friendly little club shone through.
On behalf of everyone in Farsley, thank you John and Margaret. Without you and your family, yesterday’s celebrations would never have been possible. Your leadership and generosity off the pitch has helped Farsley climb the football pyramid again and put the club back where it belongs.
A new era now begins under the leadership of new chairman Paul Barthorpe and a young and vibrant board. The National League North awaits next season as the club looks forward to an exciting future both on and off the pitch…
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