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Black and White Memories: Ian Marsden on Passion, Family, and Football


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Ian Marsden bleeds black and white. His passion for Notts County, a tradition passed down from father to son, has woven itself into the fabric of his life. "It's simple really," says Ian, a hint of nostalgia in his voice, "my dad was a Notts fan, and so am I."

Life throws curveballs, however. Ian's wife Wendy, a pillar of support who once cheerfully chauffeured him across the country to cheer on the Magpies, can no longer drive due to a brain tumour. "Football doesn't seem as important any more when things like that happen," reflects Ian poignantly. Yet, the spirit of the game, the shared experience with his daughter Paige at matches, these remain a constant. "She's not that into football," he admits with a smile, "but she loves the atmosphere and the quality time together."

Memories flood back for Ian when he talks about Notts County. He recounts his days as a junior Magpie with a childlike enthusiasm, a time filled with playing on the hallowed turf of Meadow Lane and even enjoying a stint as the club mascot. Victories over fierce rivals Nottingham Forest and the unforgettable promotion-clinching day against Cheltenham Town are etched in his mind like treasured photographs.

There have been lows too, of course. The crushing defeat at Swindon in 2019 is a moment Ian describes with a grimace as "the most horrid, awful feeling." But even the recent years in the National League have offered glimmers of light. A chance encounter with a fellow commentator on the airwaves led Ian to fulfil a lifelong dream: commentating on Notts County, albeit at a Wembley eerily devoid of fans due to Covid restrictions.

Another unforgettable moment came in the 22-23 National League season, in the press box overflow for the Wrexham away game, rubbing shoulders with international journalists for a game in the fifth tier of English football. The absurdity of the situation isn't lost on Ian. He shakes his head and chuckles; "surreal" is the word he uses.

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Ian's passion for Notts County extends beyond the terraces. His background in sports journalism finds a natural outlet in his volunteer work with Nottingham Hospitals Radio. Here, he has commentated on a wide range of sports, but the opportunity to call a Notts County game, even in the unusual circumstances of the empty Wembley stadium, holds a special place in his heart. "Despite the result and performance," he says, "this was still me, commentating on Notts, at Wembley, and that's a day I will never forget."

Ian Marsden's story is a testament to the enduring power of football fandom, a love that transcends results and circumstance. It's a love passed down through generations, a love forever bound to the black and white stripes of Notts County. His journey reflects the dedication of countless supporters who weave the threads of their lives into the fabric of their clubs. Ian, the junior Magpie turned commentator, turned family man, embodies the unwavering spirit that keeps the beautiful game alive, one supporter, one memory, one game at a time.

Ian's dedication extends far beyond the club's recent struggles in the National League. He remembers with fondness the camaraderie of away trips with Reg's tours, the thrill of scoring a goal for the junior Magpies on the hallowed turf of Meadow Lane. These experiences paint a vivid picture of a lifelong supporter, a man whose love for the club is as much about the shared experiences and the community spirit as it is about results on the pitch.

The experience of Notts County has been undeniably transformed by Ian's family life. Gone are the days of Wendy chauffeuring him across the country for away games, but the essence of his fandom remains. He finds joy in sharing his passion with his daughter Paige, creating new memories on match days. Through the highs and lows, Ian's love for Notts County has endured. It's a love story etched in black and white, a testament to the enduring power of football and the unwavering spirit of its fans.

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Following the promotion from the National League in 22-23, Ian Marsden went on to write a book called "Putting on a Show." This book tells the story of Notts County's record-breaking 22/23 promotion. It's a must-read for any fan and can be purchased from the Notts County store in person, or via contacting Ian Marsden on Facebook. You can also drop the Pride of Nottingham an email at [email protected], and we'll pass over the details. It's a great book!

Maddi Collins has organised a fundraiser to help support the Marsden family via Go Fund Me - the money raised helps Wendy who's been diagnosed with a stage 4 brain tumour tick off items from her bucket list.

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It’s touching to see how Ian and his daughter still find joy in match days despite Wendy’s illness. Football really does create lasting memories.

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What great story of a dedicated fan and I know lots of Notts fans who have been unfortunate enough to have stayed in hospital will be grateful for his voluntary work.

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so saddened to read about it, i had seen ian mention his book and his wifes diagnosis when he was on twitter. he seemed very upbeat and wanting to make the best of the situation which is admirable. i really hope the family can enjoy the rest of their time together.

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Ian Marsden's story is a beautiful reflection of what it means to be a true football fan. His unwavering dedication to Notts County, despite the personal challenges he faces, is admirable. The way he intertwines his love for the club with his family life, especially creating special moments with his daughter Paige, highlights the unique bond football can create. Ian's ability to find joy and meaning in the sport, even when faced with adversities, speaks volumes about his character and passion. His experiences, from being a junior Magpie to commentating at Wembley, show his deep connection to the club that goes beyond just being a fan. It's a testament to the lasting impact football can have on one's life.

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The story of Ian's one of both dedication and inspiration. His lifelong love for Notts County, inherited from his father, highlights the deep-rooted tradition of football fandom. Even as he faces life’s challenges, such as Wendy's illness, Ian maintains his passion for the game. The special bond he shares with his daughter Paige over match days is a lovely reminder of how football can bring people together. The highs and lows of being a Notts fan, from cherished victories to crushing defeats, all form an integral part of Ian's journey. His resilience and joy in sharing these experiences underscore the powerful connection between fans and their clubs.

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I’ve been planning to buy Ian’s book. It’s a must-have for every Notts fan as it recounts the story of our club’s triumphant return to the Football League after a period of despair. Football, when compared to life, holds less significance. Some may not show it, but deep down, they know it’s true.

The tale of how his family has come together and shown unity in the face of a severe diagnosis, such as a brain tumour, is truly inspiring. Making the most of such a situation must be challenging, but from what I’ve seen on Twitter, the Marsden family has plenty of support. I extend my best wishes to Wendy and Ian.

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It’s a heartening tale, demonstrating how one can find positivity even in challenging times. I extend my best wishes to Wendy. Ian appears to be a wonderful father, and Wendy can be grateful for her caring husband and the lovely daughter they’ve raised together. Living with a brain tumour, particularly one that can’t be fully treated, is unimaginable. It’s a dreadful situation, but the family’s unity provides a glimmer of hope.

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Volunteering at Nottingham Hospital is commendable, and something that Notts fans who are patients there will surely appreciate. It’s lovely that Ian has fond memories of his trips to cover the games, even if his time at Wembley for Notts was in an empty stadium. Wendy’s struggle with her brain tumour diagnosis is distressing. I empathise with the family and hope they continue to bravely confront this challenge together. It’s undoubtedly tough, but I’m certain that I’m not the only fan sending well wishes to the couple.

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This story is a testament to the power of football in bringing people together and providing solace during tough times. His passion for Notts County, inherited from his father, is beautifully interwoven with his own life's journey. Despite the challenges he faces, such as his wife Wendy's illness, Ian’s dedication to the Magpies remains steadfast. The special moments he shares with his daughter Paige at matches highlight the joy and unity that football brings. Ian's reflection on his experiences, from his junior Magpie days to commentating at an empty Wembley, captures both the highs and lows of being a true football fan. His story is a poignant reminder of the enduring spirit of the football community.

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Ian's story is a story of true dedication & inspiration. And what a great story to have had the opportunity to commentate at Wembley for the team that he loves.

Ian's story is a true reflection too of the pride and the passion of supporting your football club during the ups as well as the downs.

Despite his wife's illness his dedication to his club is an inspiration to us all.

I wish him, his wife and his family well.

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I hold nothing but respect for the Marden family and hope they remain united amidst Wendy’s illness. Untreatable brain tumours are incredibly challenging for those affected, much like any condition involving the brain. Football has a way of uniting a community, and I hope Ian continues to find joy in it despite Wendy’s health situation. It’s heartening to learn that Wendy used to drive Ian to matches. Now, it’s her turn to be looked after and cherished. I extend my warmest wishes to them all.

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The resilience shown by Ian and his family is heartening. Even through tough times, the love for Notts County never fades.

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Ian Marsden’s story is truly touching, highlighting the deep connection between football and life. His steadfast commitment to Notts County, even in the face of personal challenges, shows a resilience that resonates with many fans. His continued enjoyment of the game, particularly when he shares it with his daughter Paige, adds a heartfelt dimension to his story. Balancing his passion for football with family duties, especially during Wendy’s illness, emphasises the strength of the community and the comfort that football can bring.

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Articles like this make you reflect on life and football. Match days provide a welcome distraction from work and stress, but when a loved one is diagnosed with a life-threatening, untreatable illness, it puts everything into perspective. Life can be harsh, but stories like this give others hope, reminding them they’re not alone. More importantly, it shows the unity of the Notts County fan base as they rally to support and send well wishes to Ian and Wendy. Wendy seems to have a very positive spirit, and Ian is a pillar of strength for her.

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I enjoy reading these kinds of articles. They give a good insight into other fans. Very well written.

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Pride of Nottingham is an independent fansite devoted to Notts County, the world’s oldest professional football club. Created in 2013, it has served as a source of Magpie news, features, match previews, reports, analysis and interviews for more than three years.

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