Vale fans’ chance to celebrate Ernie Moss
Port Vale fans can take part in “Ernie Moss day” this Saturday when opponents Chesterfield celebrate former Spireites and Vale striker Ernie Moss who is sadly suffering from a rare form of dementia.
Moss played upfront for both clubs and the 65 year-old has been diagnosed with Pick’s Disease, a rare form of dementia.
Fans of both sides will have their chance to pay tribute to Moss on January 10th.
A number of specially produced items will be on sale to mark the day, including a limited edition badge and an exclusive ale. A special edition of the Inspire matchday programme will also be produced, featuring a poster showing an iconic image of Ernie in action plus tributes from former colleagues.
A total of 750 badges have been produced with the first one being presented to Ernie, who made 749 appearances in his career. A minimum donation of £3 will be requested for a badge, with all proceeds going to a dementia charity. Bucket collections around the stadium will also raise further funds for the charity.
Locally-based Brampton Brewery have brewed an ‘Ernie 8’ ale, which will be on sale on Saturday. Brampton Brewery will make a donation to the fundraising initiative for every pint of Ernie 8 purchased on the day.
Ernie, now aged 65, will be joined at the game by family members and a number of friends and former team-mates. Fans will be able to pay tribute to him when he is introduced to the crowd during the half-time interval.
Moss at Vale Park
The then 32 year-old striker joined the Valiants in June 1981 from Chesterfield. The Vale paid £12,000 for Moss and after 17 goals in his first season, he was named as the club’s player of the season.
He then played a key role for the majority of 1982-83 promotion season, partnering prolific Bob Newton until he was sold to Lincoln City in March for £1,500. After leaving Vale, he continued to play for another 20 years, eventually retiring in 1992.
Moss made 74 Vale appearances, scoring 23 goals.