Desert Island Memorabilia: David France and The Everton Collection

Some fantastic recollections from David (OBE). He's never forgotten his Widnes roots or his passion for all things Everton.

I hope one day, we can carry on his legacy from our own experiences.

Some of his stories made me think.

When speaking about some of the '60s players, it takes me back to the stories I was brought up on. His account of his friend, Brian Labone made me think how many unsung heroes there were in that period.

Labone, the "angel" Gabriel, Derek Temple, Morrisey and Gordon West, the keeper, who could over-arm bowl a football further than he could kick it apparently. I often think World Cup winner Ray Wilson doesn't get as much a mention he probably deserved.

I'm sure there are more and I never got the privilege to watch them.

His mention of the Liverpool museum at our former ground being one of the biggest tourist attractions in the city is a message. We should build one at Bramley-Moore Dock or Nelson Dock when we buy it. And the good Doctor's collection belongs there, with more to come and be added.

I can donate. It's only a personal thing, but way back in the 1970s, my father had a local carpenter carve a plaque out of the base of a tree. It simply reads Goodison Park, and has been displayed in every house I have lived in since then.

I loved how he described living with a coal fire, candles and a coat. I've been there. It reminded me of the times I stayed at my paternal Grandad's on Hale Road in Speke, opposite the Fox and the Dunlop's football pitches for those who know it.

He once ran out of coal, so threw newspapers on the fire, nearly causing the house to burn down. He tried worse. His garden became so overgrown, that rather than cut the grass, he set fire to it, causing alarmed neighbours to call the emergency services. Cue fire engines, police and ambulances. His reaction was to head to the Fox across the road, get my dad to buy him a pint (he never paid) and leave me outside with a bottle of pop and bag of crisps watching the carnage.

Can't wait to meet you, sir. Hopefully this fall.

Unbelievable, incredible, I was never one for collecting memorabilia, but when I look at old photographs and see how much time, money and effort has gone into Dr David’s collection, then I am always thankful that these very thoughtful people exist and believe that this collection should take pride of place inside our new stadium💙