Steve Askew, former editor of cult 90s fanzines “Get A Grip Ref” and “Son Of A Ref,” hosts a special episode in collaboration with Lower Block. This 30-minute special celebrates the launch of a nostalgic photo series documenting life at the Old Show Ground between 1981 and 1982, featuring conversations with local photographer Nic Salmon and Lower Block publisher Matt Lidbury.
During the early 1980s, The ‘Iron’ were nestled in the bottom third of the league’s lowest tier – Division Four. The Old Show Ground, which was simply known as “the Showground’, had boasted the first cantilever stand built at a British football ground in 1958, but by now was in desperate need of repair and updating. It wouldn’t be too long before this old stadium would be confined to history.
Salmon recalls vividly how the project began—approaching then-manager Ron Ashman with his proposal and, to his surprise, being granted complete access to capture everyday moments around the club.
Packed with memories from a bygone era, the limited edition A5 zine contains 45 black and white photographs spread over 48 pages, and includes an introduction written by Steve Askew, formerly of Scunthorpe United fanzines Get A Grip Ref (co-Editor 1990 – 1992) and Son Of A Ref (Editor 1995 – 1999).
Nic Salmon / Lower Block is available to pre-order here, priced at £8.50.
Nice story and some great photo’s.