Farewell Boleyn - From the Newsroom

The Times football reporter Paul Hirst has a number of fond memories covering West Ham United games at the Boleyn Ground

The Times football reporter Paul Hirst has a number of fond memories covering West Ham United games at the Boleyn Ground and says the journey down Green Street will never be forgotten.



I am sure it will be an emotional night for everyone connected with the Hammers when they say goodbye to the famous old stadium after the Manchester United game next week.


I have been fortunate enough to cover a number of games at the ground over the last few years and there is a special atmosphere at the Boleyn – especially at the midweek games under the lights.


There is something special about a night game and it certainly seems to get the players going.


The opposing teams – especially the ones outside of London seem to struggle with that kind of pressure and the atmosphere generated by the crowd who are so close to the pitch.


I love coming out of the press box and seeing the big two pictures at either end of the ground of Bobby Moore and Sir Trevor Brooking.


You are pointing back to history and the glory days when these legends of the club were producing outstanding displays and helping the club win silverware.


I also love the fact that the Boleyn Ground has four different stands and is a classic football ground.


The whole matchday experience starts when you come out of the tube station and start walking down Green Street. You can smell the burgers and see all the stalls as you approach the ground.


It is bang in the middle of an urban area and you don't get that feeling when you go to a number of other grounds in the top flight.


Walking down Green Street is part of the Boleyn experience and it is fairly unique.


The bubbles being blown all over the place with I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles being played also makes it very special.


Manchester United will be a fitting opposition for the final game. West Ham United are a family club and look after everyone who walks through the door.


One of my stand out memories was seeing the Hammers beat Chelsea 3-1 back in December 2012.


The atmosphere was electric that day and the fact that it was a local derby made it even more special.


The Boleyn Ground will be sadly missed but never forgotten.