Our November outing was to Blackpool to watch a Blackpool FC match and see the Blackpool Illuminations. The Blackpool match was chosen because their manager, Steve Bruce, was once our much-loved football team manager. It was decided that rather than our usual Thursday for our outing, we would go on a Saturday when Hull City did not have a home game coinciding with when Blackpool were at home; hence, Saturday, November 16th, was chosen.
Forty-three Senior Tigers set off from the MKM Stadium to Blackpool on what would turn out to be a full-day excursion not returning to the Stadium until 11 pm.
On arriving in Blackpool, we were dropped off on the Promenade from where we went our separate ways. For those who were going to the match, they had time for a walk along the seafront and time for lunch too. Blackpool as you would expect was very busy as Strictly Coming Dancing was broadcast from the Tower Ballroom whilst we were in Blackpool. It was busy around the Blackpool Tower where crowds of people were trying to get a glimpse of the Strictly stars.
At approximately 1.30 pm most people attending the match set off for the football ground. We were lucky enough to have the chance to find seats that suited us. Before the match against Northampton Town kicked off they held a Remembrance Service which was immaculately observed. Despite there being plenty of chances to score on both sides the match finished a 0-0 draw. Unfortunately, during the match one player was carried off injured. Although it was an exciting match, regrettably the home crowd booed the team off at full time which meant Steve Bruce disappeared down the tunnel without a wave to the supporters.
After the match, we walked back to the pickup point on the Promenade where we met those who did not go to the match. Once we were all on the coach we set off through the illuminations which was very slow going as the traffic past the Blackpool Tower was very busy. At the north end, we turned around and drove the full length of the fantastic illuminations. We then made our way back to the motorway and home. We found out that the motorway had earlier been closed at Huddersfield but luckily it had just reopened when we got there. We arrived at the MKM Stadium at 11 pm before returning to Cottingham for the final drop off.
Despite the cold wind of the Irish Sea and arriving home late, it was a great day out and everyone enjoyed themselves.
Shirley Cormack on behalf of Andy Riley.
Blackpool game at Bloomfield Road. Views from our seats
Blackpool Illuminations
