A lifelong Watford fan has called for the late Graham Taylor to be awarded a posthumous knighthood for his services to football and charitable causes.

Growing up in Abbots Langley, Paul Chapman – now a police officer in Queensland, Australia – went to his first game around the age of six and has been in love with the Hornets ever since.  

He fondly remembers the family terrace at Vicarage Road, and says it epitomised the football-for-all ethos that Graham ingrained in the club.

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“Graham led English football out of some difficult times in the late 70s and 80s by demonstrating how a football club could be a safe environment, in which all fans could enjoy the fantastic football on show and the many successes that followed during GT’s time,” he said.

“Graham also built Watford into a shining example to the rest of the country by engaging with the community. He went on to instil an absolute respect for the fans into every player who played for him.

“The family terrace was the embodiment of Graham’s vision, reminding footballers that the supporters are the lifeblood of every club. He recognised the value of families enjoying football together.

“30 years on and every professional football club in the country is still attempting to replicate his success. Some of the bigger clubs however are still some way off.”

Aside from the unparalleled success he enjoyed during two spells at the club, Graham was a patron of several charities, generously spending time to help those less fortunate.

Stories of his personal touch with fans have also emerged since his death, enhancing his legendary status among the Watford faithful.

Arguing the case for one of Watford’s favourite sons to be dubbed Sir Graham, Mr Chapman added: “I think most people will agree that he is an obvious choice for a knighthood for his tireless and lifelong service to football, to the community, and to numerous charities.

“Graham was an absolute role model for all ages. He was an extremely successful man who did it the right way.

“Unfortunately on occasion it’s not until you lose such an influential figure that you question why, having achieved what he did over the last five decades, has he not been further recognised in the honours list?”

See today's Watford Observer for a special 16-page tribute to Watford's greatest manager.

If you are unable to pick up a copy, you can order one by emailing deliveries@nqe.com or calling 0800 953 0227.

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