This season, BETDAQ launched the #PrideOfTheValley to reward the most dedicated Charlton fans. Each home league game, a fan is selected to win the reward and the individual is presented with a signed shirt.
This week Betty Hutchins has been nominated. Betty has been a dedicated Charlton fan for more than 70 years and has been a steward on the Charlton coaches for many, many years. She’s been a regular at the “Buddies” meeting on a Wednesday at The Valley and when at The Valley on a matchday she sits in the Upper North to join in with the singing.
Betty is very ill at the moment and last Thursday Lyle Taylor went to see Betty to present her with her signed shirt. Here is what she had to say about the club she loves.
Why I became a Charlton fan: My dad had three children and me being the youngest, he took me to Charlton as he was also a fan.
My first game at The Valley was: in 1946, but unfortunately I cannot remember the opposition.
My first away day with Charlton was: against Hull City in about 1972-73 and I remember it was freezing cold.
On 25th May 1998 I was: at Wembley watching the Play off final with family and friends.
My favourite Charlton game (not including the play-off final): There were many favourites, but the one that stands out was against Barnsley and we beat them 6-0.
My favourite Charlton player: was Derek Hales because he was a character and I remember standing behind the goal in the North Stand and a fan shouted out to Derek, asking him what would he like and he said ‘a pint’.
My favourite Charlton kit is: any of the red and white kits, but not any away kits.
The best part of being a Charlton fan is: the friends I have made and the excitement of the matchday.
My Charlton starting XI would be: Bartram; Humphries, Rufus, Fish, Chris Powell; Robinson, Hales, Holland, Bartlett, Flanagan and Mendonca
The Charlton player of the season will be: Lyle Taylor, he scores goals and appreciates the supporters.