FOR any Cherries fan this week’s historic League Cup victory was a special day, but for one lifelong supporter the match marked a milestone of his own.

Vivian Dicks has attended AFC Bournemouth matches for more than 80 years, but on Tuesday he enjoyed a tour of the Goldsands Stadium and a chat with manager Eddie Howe and the players to mark his 90th birthday.

The pensioner, who lives at Care South’s Templeman House care home in Northbourne, also enjoyed a drink in the lounge at the stadium and a visit to the players’ tunnel.

Care home manager Deanna Barnes, who accompanied Mr Dicks on the day, said: “Vivian had the most amazing time at the game; he thoroughly enjoyed every minute and was absolutely delighted to have the opportunity to meet the manager and players pitch-side ahead of the match.

“I’d like to thank everyone at AFC Bournemouth who made his day so special – it was a real birthday treat.”

Although Mr Dicks has watched hundreds of games in his lifetime, this was the first time that he had met the manager and been pitch-side.

It was also the first time in recent years that he’d been to an evening match.

Rob Mitchell, commercial director at AFC Bournemouth, said: “It was a real privilege to meet Mr Dicks at the football, which was ideally timed with the club breaking a second record in the space of a week.

“We’re pleased that Mr Dicks got to celebrate his 90th birthday and watch AFC Bournemouth reach the quarter finals of the Capital One Cup for the first time in the club’s history.

“The club is hugely proud of working with Care South and we are thoroughly enjoying delivering activities in the homes and meeting the residents.”