Poole Town heroes award medal to superfan in hospital

Martin, 55, has been a constant presence at Poole for a number of years, offering congratulations or consolation whether the Dolphins win lose or draw.

Suffering a series of small strokes forced him to miss the club’s crowning glory on Saturday when a 3-0 win over Dunstable clinched the Southern League Premier Division title and promotion to the National League.

But having learned of Martin’s plight, Poole’s kind-hearted squad were quick to step in and make sure he shared in the celebrations.

Martin said: “I was so emotional, I really didn’t expect that. I didn’t know the lads thought that much of me, it was such a pleasure just to see them.

“The medal is brilliant, I am so happy. I will treasure it forever.”

Killick, who has led Poole from county football to the highest level designed for semi-professional clubs in 12 trophy-laden seasons, also visited Martin before Saturday’s decisive match.

He said: “When you have a club of our size, there is a personal relationship between supporters, players and management.

“Martin is one of our most dedicated supporters. He is at every game, home and away, and travels with us on the coach.

“The players know him and because of the character he is, we all have a great deal of affection for him.

“From the outside, it may appear something unusual but he is someone we hold in such high regard as an important part of the Poole Town family. It was only natural for us to want to give him a lift.

“Saturday was quite nerve wracking for me but seeing what it all meant to Martin was very humbling.

“To see his reaction when we took in the medal was something special. You could see how happy he was and that meant the world to all of us.

“We wanted to try to take in the trophy but that was a bit foolish because we underestimated the size of it.

“The next best thing was be to give him one of the medals and thankfully, it seemed to make his day.”