On Saturday, Whaddon Road witnessed a powerful moment of unity as fans and former players gathered to pay tribute to Neil Grayson, one of Cheltenham Town’s most revered legends. During the match against Colchester United, the crowd rose in the ninth minute to salute Grayson, who has been bravely facing dementia and motor neurone disease.
As the guest of honour, Grayson was warmly welcomed alongside a fleet of former Robins who came to show their support. Members from the club’s celebrated Southern League, FA Trophy, and Conference-winning teams were present, demonstrating the deep respect felt throughout the Cheltenham community. Despite a disappointing 4-1 result on the pitch, the atmosphere remained uplifting, marking an emotionally charged day for the League Two club.
Grayson led a memorable half-time lap of honour, accompanied by former teammates including Chris Banks, Jason Eaton, Bob Bloomer, Keith Knight, John Brough, Shane Duff, Jamie Victory, and Martin Devaney. Additionally, veteran club figures from the 1980s and 90s, such as Dave Mogg, Ian Howell, Neil Smith, Jimmy Wring, and several others, joined the celebration, reflecting on the club’s rich history.
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A fundraising initiative established to assist with Grayson’s care has already raised over £6,000, a testament to the strong community spirit surrounding the beloved striker.
Neil Grayson first arrived at Cheltenham Town from Hereford United in March 1998, at the age of 33. His impact was immediate and lasting, finishing as the club’s top scorer for three consecutive seasons. He played a pivotal role in securing the Conference title in 1998/99 and was instrumental in Cheltenham’s promotion to League One through the 2001/02 play-offs.
Among his memorable moments were his winning goal in the thrilling 2-1 comeback against Rushden & Diamonds in April 1999, which was key to achieving the club’s historic first promotion to the English Football League. He also scored in the decisive 3-2 victory over Yeovil Town that clinched the title. Grayson’s final contribution came with an iconic volley that struck the post in the 2002 play-off final at the Millennium Stadium, before teammate John Finnigan sealed a 3-1 win.
Continuing his football journey beyond Cheltenham, Grayson played for clubs including Forest Green Rovers and Stafford Rangers, extending his career into his 50s. Now residing in York, he was driven down to Gloucestershire by Newcastle-based Robins supporter Ade Metcalf for a two-night visit, hosted by former teammate John Brough.
Before kickoff, Grayson was invited into the home dressing room to reunite with his former manager Steve Cotterill and meet the current Cheltenham squad. He was presented with a signed Cheltenham home shirt bearing his iconic number 9. In a special gesture coordinated by Cotterill, Colchester manager Danny Cowley, and referee Tom Reeves, the game was briefly paused at the ninth minute to honour Grayson, whose legacy as one of the club’s greatest number nines remains firmly etched in Cheltenham Town’s history.