R.I.P Iain ... As others have said far to soon at just 54. Reason why everyone on here should have a good day everyday .....you never know what the future holds Hopefully just great times for every one on here.
Iain wasn't as bad a keeper as some on here have made out but his nickname 'Sumo' probably hints at his issues. Still very sad at this news and also at the lack of information regarding what happened to him. Nobody deserves to check out at an early age and Iain did have his moments for the fans whether he was in decline as a player or not, I remember his amazing throw-outs and the fans did like and respect him whether he was a bit crap or not.
Have to admit that he made my skin crawl on that prog – constantly moaning about the facilities and the hospitality they were receiving (it seemed from the prog that they were being welcomed with open arms too by the locals who didn’t have much for themselves let alone guests). Of course, this was just after the Iron Curtain fell and facilities weren’t A1 in countries like Bulgaria. Food, facilities etc were at a premium. I think Hesford was constantly saying things like ‘only three more days till we can go’ to the camera – which to me, seemed like really poor form and against the spirit of such a tour. The programme was shown the night before our season opener v Notts County in the old Div 2. I also remember John ‘hit the upright’ Helm presenting it.
Sad news, wasn't he the shortest goalie ever at that time, or was it just the shortest goalie we ever had?
He was certainly a big character. It was probably this rather than his abilities that afforded him such a long professional career. For better or worse, he certainly left his mark on the club and will live long in the memory. RIP
Very tragic news - condolences to his family. As others have said he wasn't great for us, but football and real life are two different things
I remember that show. We had some crap in the squad in those days, Gwyn Thomas, Ken De Mange, Buckley, Shotton
Shotton was good. I know for a FACT that Dolan bombed him out because he was worried about Shotton being earmarked from within for his job. Great tache too. The rest you have a valid point.
I remember us shipping loads of goals in with Shotton in the team. I know he had been a decent player.
Sad news indeed! Not one of our best keepers but certainly a character! As someone pointed out he did once play for England Under 21s and I think the family has some kind of record in that his brothers also played for England and/or Great Britain. One at rugby union and the other at rugby league.
