After an odd gig in Leeds and having already visited Elland Road some time ago, I decided to treat myself with a slight detour via Tadcaster on the way home. Why ever not.
It immediately scores points, perhaps unfairly, for being situated behind a big John Smiths brewery. Plenty of geeky looking buildings hide the football ground, and also lends a lot to the club’s nickname, The Brewers.
As for the stadium, there’s actually very little to it. It’s only really got two stands, and both are situated behind one of the goals. One, the Ken Gilbertson Stand, is another modern prefab that is barely worthy of mention.
However right next to it is a wonderful old monster that’s absolutely falling to bits. A slightly arched roof covers steep and brightly coloured wooden benches and as soon as I set eyes on it I was in love.
The players entrance also featured what I think is the best door handle in British football, although if there’s any others that are more ornamental then I’m willing to wait a week or two before handing out the trophy.
Plenty of advertising boards are dedicated to the club itself, and I applaud this. “We All Love Tad” was a personal favourite (who doesn’t love a bit of Tad?), although there were plenty to choose from. It’s safe to say this one’s a yes for me.
While we’re on yeses, why not say yes to buying my book?