The new Ipswich 'Til I Die book was launched at a reception at Ipswich Town Hall on Wednesday evening. The book is a collection of footballing memories written by Blues fans with the project having been run by the Ipswich Town Independent Supporters Trust.
The reception, which was attended by current players Richard Wright and Jon Walters, as well as former Blues Micky Stockwell and Bryan Hamilton and the Mayor of Ipswich, saw many of the contributors to the book read their stories.
Advance copies have already received praise with one story in particular creating a great deal of interest.
Lifelong Town fan Steven Cheeseman from Coventry came out of a coma after tapes of Town games and a personal message from Jim Magilton were played to him. Steven's mother has written movingly about his recovery.
Other contributions include Major Mark Stoneman of the US Army relating the story of how, with TWTD's help, a small town in Iraq ended up with more than 400 Ipswich shirts and Dave Maxey on how he pulled his son back from the brink after discovering a Manchester United poster on his wall, while there is an introduction from Sir Bobby Robson.
The book, which includes more than 40 such tales, will be on sale by Sir Alf (where TWTD is sold when we've got an issue out) before Saturday's game at £10 a copy and from Trust members around the ground and in Planet Blue. You can also purchase the book online from TWTD here.
The Ipswich Town Independent Supporters' Trust have produced the book in partnership with Legends Publishing, the National Literacy Trust, Supporters Direct, Ipswich Town's Community Trust, the Department for Children, Schools and Families and the Football Foundation.
Revenue from the book will go to the club's Community Trust and to Ipswich Town Ist to be used for community-based schemes. Free copies of Ipswich 'Til I Die will be distributed to local schools, libraries and community groups, strengthening the club's links with the local community.