Member Article

Builder names new road after local football hero

A regional builder has recognised the commitment of a former leading light in local football by naming a road in his memory.

Persimmon Homes South West is creating a new community at Jasmine Gardens in Wellington and decided it was fitting to name a road after the late Selwyn Aspin, who was a stalwart of youth football for several decades.

His family was invited along to an official road opening ceremony, which also coincided with the launch of a new view home on the development.

Selwyn, who died two years ago aged 81, moved from Yorkshire to Wellington in 1966. He was involved in Wellington Football Club from the late 1970s until he passed away. Two of the many roles he took on was first team manager and Wellington FC committee chairman. He started the first youth team in the town which today boasts 24 youth squads.

His son, Graham Aspin, said: “He loved going to watch all the home and away games and was very committed to the youth teams, which just went from strength to strength.

“It is a great honour that Persimmon chose to name one of the new roads after our father and the family was truly overwhelmed when they heard. Along with the successful memorial events we have held, this really is the icing on the cake as a way to remember our dad.”

The family has held two memorial fundraising events raising thousands of pounds for charity. They are due to hold another one in November when the town’s youth teams will be involved in a sponsored penalty shoot-out.

Selwyn’s daughter Jill Pearson added: “You know within your own family network the impact a loved one has, however it is really quite humbling to realise that the local community of Wellington also recognised his contribution and clearly valued it. Many thanks for such a tribute.”

Nina Hester, sales and marketing director for Persimmon Homes South West, said: “When we build any new development we want it to become a real part of the community. Therefore, it seemed only right in Wellington that we honoured Selwyn Aspin and his incredible commitment to football in the town.

“He was a real community stalwart in the true sense of the word and we are delighted to name this road in his memory. Jasmine Gardens is already turning into a lovely community and we hope this is reflected in the naming of this road.”

Two, three and four-bedroom homes are being built at Jasmine Gardens, in Damson Crescent, which are appealing to a wide range of buyers.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Lee Southen .