Martin Avenell, Loud And Proud

‘We need to do something’. That was the rallying call of Martin Avenell, and the stepping stone to launch the highly successful Red Army Loud and Proud Campaign. Here we get Martin’s thoughts on Loud and Proud, County Ground redevelopment and much more.

Q: Please tell us a bit about yourself?

: I’m 33 years old, married and soon to be a dad for the first time. I work in Oxford for BMW as a quality engineer.

Q: What made you get involved with Loud and

roud/Soccer Night/ Keep Town In Swindon?

: Well, after the defeat away to MK Dons, something had to be done, so I just tried posting a rallying call on the forums, asking fans to unite and be partisan in their support as I knew the players would need us more than ever. That as many now know, inspired Rob Tuck among others to grasp the loud and proud element of that internet post and the rest is history. I’ve remained part of that group of fans that have been behind the loud and proud campaign, our efforts culminating so far in the recent launch of our own website dedicated to the cause.

Q: How long have you supported Swindon Town?

: Honestly? The exact number of years is a blurr, but I’d have to say pretty much all my life.

Q: Who is your favourite player and why?

: Currently, from what I’ve seen so far, Lee Peacock. You have to love a guy that will run & run & run, to the good of the team. His effort and commitment so far for us has been first class.

Q: Who has been Iffy’s best signing?

: See above!

Q: What’s your favourite Swindon Town Memory?

: There are so many. Days in the old town end and shrivvy road with my dad will always be special. But my best memory would have to be the play-off final against the black cats. Fantastic atmosphere and result, and the party in old town afterwards was pretty special too, with the march down vic hill to the town hall being extremely loud and proud!

Q: Do you think the County Ground re-development will

o ahead and why?

: I think its very much hanging in the balance. But if I had to stick my neck out right now then I’d have to say no. The reason for that is simply that so far there has been very little interest from Swindon Borough Council in assisting the club, but then I also believe the clubs initial proposals were a bit unrealistic.

Q: In five years I see Swindon Town??

: Challenging for the championship title. As long as we keep Iffy & we get that redevelopment.

Q: If you didn’t support Swindon Town what would you

o on Saturdays?

: No idea ? but I wouldn’t follow Oxford!

Q: Do you have a second team? If so who?

: Spurs. Simply because as a child, for me, they played the beautiful game and were brilliant to watch.

Q: Will Swindon Town avoid relegation?

: Of course. Have faith.