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.
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