From the Terraces to Best Men

In this episode of Chorley FC Stories, John Paul Lynch and Julian “Jue” Vass share how their friendship grew through a shared love of Chorley FC. What began as simply watching football soon developed into a lifelong bond, with the pair travelling the country together to follow the Magpies and becoming deeply involved in the supporter community around Victory Park.

They reflect on their early days following the club, from first matches in the late 1990s and early 2000s to the friendships formed through away travel, supporter events and evenings in the social club. Over the years, football trips have taken them to grounds across the non-league pyramid, creating countless stories along the way – from long coach journeys and seaside away days to unexpected adventures that sometimes had little to do with the football itself.

The conversation also explores the many ways supporters contribute to the club beyond the terraces. Both John Paul and Jue have been heavily involved in supporter organisations over the years, helping with fundraising, volunteering on matchdays and supporting the work of the Magpies Trust. Through roles such as selling Golden Goal tickets, organising events and helping grow membership, they have played their part in strengthening the connection between the club and its supporters.

Above all, their story highlights the friendships that football can create. Chorley FC brought them together, led to John Paul becoming best man at Jue’s wedding, and provided the backdrop for countless trips, holidays and memories. Their conversation is a reminder that for many supporters, football is not just about the result on the pitch – it is about the people you meet, the journeys you take and the lifelong friendships that grow along the way.

This episode forms part of the Chorley FC Stories heritage project led by Chorley FC Community Foundation, which aims to capture and preserve the voices and memories of those connected to the club so that the history and community spirit surrounding Chorley FC can continue to be shared with future generations.