West Ham United legend Alvin Martin gave four deserving Hammers fans a surprise to remember this week when he personally visited each at home to present them with the new Umbro 2021/22 away shirt.
Terry Douglas, Doreen Moore, Thomas Holland and George Foster, all of whom have either suffered illness or lost loved ones through the pandemic, were treated to an unexpected knock at the door from 1980 FA Cup winner and three-time Hammer of the Year Alvin, who spent some time chatting all things West Ham and presented each with the new shirt.
The blue and white striped design takes inspiration from the kit worn by the promotion-winning squad of 1992/93 – of which Alvin was a member - when Billy Bonds’ team earned their place in the newly-formed Premier League for the first time.
One of the lucky fans, Season Ticket holder Doreen, of South Ockendon in Essex, was overjoyed to be visited by one of her Hammers heroes, saying: “It’s wonderful to meet Alvin, who played so many games and was a one-club man. I did recognise him, even with the beard!”
Thomas, who lives in Brentwood, added: “It was a brilliant surprise to see Alvin at the front door! It’s a lovely gesture to have received the new away kit, I like the stripes and look forward to wearing it with pride this season.”
Reflecting on the visits, Alvin said: “I’ve really enjoyed it. Four fantastic West Ham fans, who have all had tough years, but are still smiling.
“I think when you do something like we’ve done today, it brings home what the Club means to the fans, the way it brings us all together with a common bond.
“Hopefully we’ve made their day, they can look forward to bright days of the team playing in this shirt, and onwards and upwards for everyone connected with West Ham United.”
Supporters can get their hands on the new kit now by heading to: officialwesthamstore.com or visiting any of our Official Club Stores at London Stadium, Liberty Romford, Lakeside Thurrock or Basildon Eastgate.
