WIFC celebrated 15 years since their formation last weekend. Though the first game actually took place in May 1997, the celebrations were held over until now to enable the club to combine their annual end of season awards with a big drink-up at Druids, their home pub, on Saturday night. More than 50 players, past and present, and partners were on hand to toast the club’s continued success while Watford FC, their sponsors Football Manager, Druids and local author Lionel Birnie generously donated prizes to be raffled for club funds.

Players past and present gather for a different take on the classic team picture pose

On the night, the 2011/12 awards were dished out by team manager Chris Davis. Joel Moody added the Players Player award to his already unique double of top appearance maker and top scorer for the season, while Ed Sterry was voted Most Improved Player. Dan Willis won the Best Newcomer, while outgoing joint manager Dave Messenger won a 4th Clubman gong. Finally, Paul Karlsen joined the select band of WIFC players to join the club’s Hall of Fame.

Moody celebrates his award with team-mates Stu Nicholls, Dave Soloway, Rob Stone and jez Hinds.

Ed Sterry enjoys his Most Improved Player award

The new WIFC season gets off to an early start this weekend, as the Internet ‘Orns travel to Preston to take on the IFA League Champions for a morning kick-off before travelling on to Bolton for Watford’s fixture later in the day. Anyone interested in joining the team in time for the trip can Email [email protected] for more details.

Lionel Birnie’s new book, ‘Tales from the Vicarage’ is available to pre-order now – click on the artwork below  for more information.