MEET Derek Elston, on Saturday he attended his 1,800th consecutive Swindon Town game, a record stretching back to 1981.

In that time the 64-year-old has seen relegation, promotion and near bankruptcy but has remained loyal to his club, despite living in Northampton.

“My parents had friends that used to live in Chiseldon but I’ve never lived in Swindon, I’ve never lived in Wiltshire,” explained Mr Elston.

“Every game is an away game. It’s just what I do, I shall be going Tuesday and I shall be at Crewe on Saturday.

“I’m not too sure what will stop me but something will one day.”

It is quite impressive to go that long and not miss a game for reasons not under your control, but there have been close shaves.

About six years ago a rescheduled arthroscopy nearly ruled the die-hard fan out of a trip to Carlisle.

“I went to get the date changed and they said if you do we can’t tell when you’ll get an other appointment.

“So I decided to have it done. Fortunately my wife said if I got out on time she’d drive me up there, and that’s what happened.”

Mr Elston could not put a finger on why he had amassed such a record, but has no plans to give up any time soon.

“I think when you follow a smaller club you appreciate the good times more.

“Who knows when it’s going to end.”