The Netflix cameras may have delved deep into the lives of David and Victoria Beckham but there is another power couple at the beating heart of Chesham United’s Emirates FA Cup run.
Raymond Trafford, 79, and wife Ann attend every Generals fixture and are into their seventh season volunteering at the Meadow.
On Saturday, the Pitching In Southern League Premier Division South side take on Maidstone United of the Vanarama National League South in the first round proper of the FA Cup.
Beckham won the famous old trophy as part of a storied treble in 1999 but history-making is not on Trafford's mind, as he insists it’s business as usual behind the scenes.
“I think they’ll bring quite a lot of supporters and we’ll be looking at a gate of 1,500,” said Trafford. “It’s going to be a big day, everybody's buzzing around here and we’re really looking forward to it.
“As I always do, I’ll make sure everything is okay for the football side of things. I’ll make sure all the heating is working, any repairs that need doing, I’ll get them sorted before the game.
“Then I’m hospitality manager for the board room. I come down and get everything set up, oranges for the home and away side and the referees, and make sure we’ve got biscuits and cakes.
“I’ll make all the coffees and teas at half time, put out cakes and biscuits and then at the end of the game, make sure everyone has got their drinks and food.
“It’s very hands on but we love it.”
Trafford recalls fondly a 1-0 win away against Bristol Rovers at the same stage in 2015 and is one of countless volunteers who play integral roles at non-league clubs across the country, with opportunities to get involved now available through the Pitching In Volunteer Hub.
While he hopes his team can embark on a cup run worthy of its own documentary, Trafford is just pleased to be able to make a difference alongside his best friend.
“It would be massive to reach round two. For a club like ours, it’s big money,” added Trafford. “We’ve had loads of support and the whole of Chesham gets involved in it, so it’s really good for everybody.
“The club treat me and my wife very well. We go on all the coach trips and we don't have to pay for that, and we go in the boardroom and we have the food.
“Ann and I do all the cleaning – we enjoy it. I'm not a person who wants to sit down and do nothing, I like to work with the club.
“I like the players, I like talking to the managers and there’s a really nice atmosphere, it’s great.”
WORDS: Ben Hart, Sportsbeat
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