My brother George first took me to the “Arsenal Stadium” at Highbury on a regular basis in during the 1957-58 season. I was 8 years old.
In 2020, with the UK in lockdown due to a global pandemic, I decided it would be a good time to share my life following “The Arsenal” for over 60 years.
Gunners and Gooners is my memoir. A collection of some of my stories, photo’s, memories and experiences following my club over land and sea across 8 decades.
Over that time football, and The Arsenal, have changed beyond recognition.
From the “hooligan era” of the 60s and 70s, through to George Graham’s revival, Anfield 89 and European success in the 90s. Post-Euro 96 and the Wenger era and the move from Highbury to Ashburton Grove.
I go into some great times shared with great mates, terrace characters and legendary players that have been encountered along the way.
Following The Arsenal has had its ups and lows. Its triumphs and tragedies. The book has been written with humour, honesty and insight from someone who can see they were there, living in the moment.
As an old mate of mine once said, “You can change your wife but not your football team”.
Eddie Symes, Author
I first met Eddie on the North Bank in 1965 when Joe Baker and George Eastham were our heroes.
I’m even in the photo with his North Bank banner at Bristol in 1967, when I missed a reserve game after claiming to have the flu.
I was fortunate to live the dream, playing for and winning trophies with “The Arsenal”, our beloved football club, in front of many of my mates.
Undoubtedly, if I hadn’t become a professional footballer I imagine my life would probably have been similar to Eddie’s.
Hopefully this book will either bring back some happy, funny memories or give an insight into the life of an Arsenal fan of our generation.
Charlie George, King of Highbury
Author Eddie Symes was born in Westminster hospital in July 1949 and now lives in Buckinghamshire. He’s been a Licensed London Taxi Driver since 1977 and is married with one daughter, two grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
His book Gunners and Gooners is available on Amazon to buy now.
She Wore A Yellow Ribbon 
Hi Eddie Symes, I’m Ed Minick was with you I think on the North Bank & away games, the fights. Mates with Micky Child’s ( Putney ) & Pat Bebbington
LikeLike
Hi Eddie.
Great you’ve found me. We were hoping to get some old faces contacting us again.
Of course we remember you and Pat.
Most of us are still alive and usually have a reunion twice a year.
Email me at oldgunnersandgooners@gmail.com
Thanks.
Eddie.
LikeLike