Life-long and devoted football fans could now have the chance to never be parted from their beloved team thanks to an innovative new memorial concept. 

Watford Football Club supporters who wish for some of their ashes to remain close to Vicarage Road when they die could choose to have them made into a plaque using clay, rather than scattering them at the ground.

The idea, proposed by Watford Club chaplain, Clive Ross, could become part of the club’s memorial space in Vicarage Road cemetery. 

After receiving the club’s support, Mr Ross contacted Mayor Dorothy Thornhill and funeral directors, M. K. Ginder and Sons, and together with Watford Borough Council they have begun finding a suitable location for the memorial area. 

Clive Ross, said: “I talk to so many people connected to Watford Football Club who were disappointed that they couldn’t use the Vicarage Road pitch as the final resting place for a loved one. 

Hopefully this scheme will mean that families will have a permanent, personal and tangible memorial for their loved ones, as well being able to ensure that they will be right next door to the football club that has formed a big part of their lives.”

Mrs Thornhill said: “It’s one of the real joys of this job to be able to get an idea like Clive’s and help make it into a reality.”

Adam Ginder, managing director of M. K. Ginder and Sons funeral directors said his family run business were “delighted” to be supporting the scheme.