SHIRT STORIES

Notable kits remembered

No 98 Aldershot Town (h) 1992-93

The 1992-93 season was a landmark time for Shots supporters. The old Aldershot FC, members of the Football League since 1932, disappeared in March 1992 due to being massively in debt. The new club that began at the third level of the Isthmian League the next season kept the red and blue club colours, in a typical 1990s minimalist styling.

Just like the previous season’s shirt, it was designed by Surrey-based sportswear firm Ribero. The red home shirt featured the brand new “phoenix from the flames” club crest, with an intricate vertical lined pattern and the standard royal blue collar (minus the white trimming on the previous season’s version). Local business Pam’s Florist won an auction to become the main shirt sponsor, their name featuring in bold white italic lettering.

Under the astute leadership of ex- Shots central defender Steve Wignall, Aldershot cobbled together a collection of youngsters and experienced non-League players, including midfielder Tony Calvert (below). They kicked off in style in front of 1,493 expectant fans, as Steve Stairs and Mark Butler bagged two goals apiece in a 4-2 win over Clapton.

That season saw typical home attendances in north-east Hampshire topping 2,000, as Wignall’s men reeled off ten straight wins. They were to storm through the Isthmian League Division Three with only two defeats in 38 matches and a goal difference of 55, finishing 18 points clear. The 1993-94 season saw another promotion, this time in third, while the computer company Datrontech took over the sponsorship as the Shots returned to red and blue striped shirts. But fans will always remember that first season’s kit, which has now become a rare collector’s item. Russell Wingham