A memorial garden paying tribute to former supporters of West Ham United has been reopened.
The club today (August 11) announced the reopening of the garden at the Boleyn Ground, the football club’s stadium from 1904 to 2016.
The Boleyn Ground, or Upton Park as it was also known, was replaced as the Hammers’ home by the London Stadium in 2016.
The memorial garden has a plaque honouring the name, year of birth and year of death of supporters remembered there.
Victor Gray, a West Ham fan, said: “My son left us six years ago, and he is in the garden now.
“We never missed a game together for 22 years, and West Ham was his favourite place in the world.
“For us, this is a resting place,” he added. “Where he is now and the way this has been looked after by the club, I can never thank them enough.”
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West Ham arranged a series of private visits last month for families and friends of supporters remembered there and said the garden’s design considered their feedback.
Sean Martin, a fellow Iron, said: “This brings so many happy memories.
“My dad used to come here on a weekly basis with myself when West Ham were at home from the early 70s up to when he passed away in 2013.
“He would have been so happy to be here,” he added.
West Ham United and developer Barratt London were behind the project.
Jake Heath, head of supporter services, said: “This is an emotional day for all of us.
“A special place for our club and it is an honour to pay tribute and remember supporters who are no longer with us.”
The garden contains a capsule containing items and plaques dedicated to family members.
Benches have been installed as a place of reflection for supporters.
Allan White, project director for Barratt London, added: “We are proud to have worked alongside West Ham United on this project.
“We hope we have created a fitting memorial for people to visit for many years to come.”
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