Les Simmons

All Watford fans of a certain age will have been very sad to hear of the passing of Les Simmons. He was a real character and was held in great affection by the staff and the fans alike. The hard work and the pride that he took in preparing the pitch was evident in the pristine surface, which was sadly then ruined by the players. Many fans also have tales of tickings off for having dared set foot on the hallowed turf. After 50 years' service, he was awarded a testimonal and Graham Taylor has never said a truer word than when he commented that wonderful servants such as Les were the kind of people football should be honouring, not highly paid players who are set up for life. More recently, it was fitting to see Les back at Vicarage Road as a guest at the Cup Final dinner. He was such a crucial part of the extended team and it was lovely to see him there catching up with old friends and sharing the reminiscences. Les will be sadly missed by the Watford faithful. Our thoughts are with his family at this time.