Roughyeds fan in a league of his own

A SMILING Sam Bradley on his big day, surrounded by his family and proudly wearing his Oldham jersey, signed by the players. Back row (left to right): Elizabeth Welch (grand-daughter), Ian Bradley (son), Catherine McCormick (grand-daughter). Front: Maisie Welch (great grand-daughter), birthday-boy Sam, Isabella McCormick (great grand-daughter).

A LIFELONG Roughyeds fan celebrated his centenary with a special Oldham RLFC shirt signed by all the players.

Sam Bradley, a former RAF ground crew engineer with Bomber Command in the Battle of Britain, was thrilled to get a telegram from the Queen — and just as delighted to receive the signed jersey as a present from his son Ian (65) and daughter-in-law Angela.

Sam lived most of his life in Honeywell Lane before moving to sheltered accommodation in Warwickshire, where he has lived for the last 11 years.

His son Ian, who updates his father every Sunday on the top-of-the-table Roughyeds’ latest matches, said: “It’s difficult to know what to get a man for his 100th birthday, but we knew he would love the signed shirt because he’s supported Oldham for most of his life.

“He was made up when we gave him the shirt, signed by captain Lewis Palfrey and the rest of the squad. He’s aware of how well the team is doing and how they are going all out for promotion. He’s desperate for them to achieve it this year.”

Club chairman Chris Hamilton said: “It goes without saying that congratulations and best wishes go to Sam from everybody at the club. His is a remarkable life story. What an incredible debt we owe to people like Sam and his generation.”