Last Monday I was delighted to receive an invitation from an international firm to corporate hospitality at a football match.
Imagine my surprise and disappointment on Thursday when the itinerary for Nairn County v Rothes arrived. Here is Nairn County's idea of corporate hospitality for the Match Sponsors
Lunch: Not provided
Pre-match drinks: In the Boardroom ( a portacabin located at one end of the ground)
Corporate Seating: Main stand (see below) - seats comprised a 6 x 2 plank of wood (painted).
Half time: Tea (option of coffee not available), 24 homemade sandwiches (choice of 12egg or 12 ham), 20 small sausage rolls, one bowl of crisps
Post Match: Back to portacabin for drink.
So how would I sum up the day.
It was an absolutely wonderful day spent in the company of real football people who put their heart and soul into keeping their local club going.
Lunch was excellent with plenty of "crack" and good humour.
The game itself was splendid with both young teams (reportedly on £ 60 per man) trying to play passing football throughout. There was no diving, no attempts to con the referee and despite the odd strong challenge there were not one instance of histrionics or people rolling about in alleged agony. The home fans in the stand voiced their appreciation of good play by the visitor on numerous occasions.
Post match hospitality included being invited to a local hotel where both sets of players and club officials were standing at the bar sharing bar meals and a pint. Great.
Many thanks to my hosts and Nairn County FC.
