Home   Medway   News   Article

Gillingham FC fan Jim Norley pens book on 175 club legends

It was love at first sight when an eight-year-old Jim Norley was taken to Priestfield back in 1989.

Now three decades later, the massive Gills' fan is sharing his affection for the club with a special illustrated history book.

Gillingham Legends' author Jim Norley
Gillingham Legends' author Jim Norley

Gillingham Legends is all about 175 players and staff who the dad of two rates as the blues' greatest servants.

Spanning the last century, those featured played major parts in the club's many ups and downs.

The book, which is self-published and costs £15, has already sold more than 200 copies.

Jim, who works in the printing industry, got the idea after being encouraged by fellow fans.

Without any matches to look forward to during lockdown, he'd been posting his 'legends' on a dedicated Twitter account.

Jim first visited Priestfield as an eight-year-old in 1989
Jim first visited Priestfield as an eight-year-old in 1989

"People seemed to like it and I picked up more than 800 followers," he said. "Then a couple of people suggested putting in all together in a book, so I did and it's going down well."

Of the 175 people covered, 139 of them are still living and Jim, of Plummer Crescent, Sittingbourne, managed to get 110 of them to sign copies.

Although most still reside in the Kent and Medway area, a few have emigrated.

These include Gavin Peacock – scorer of 11 goals in 64 games between 1987 and 1989 – who now lives in Canada.

He's also received endorsements from many of those featured, including former manager Martin Allen.

Former player and manager Andy Hessenthaler is Jim's personal favourite
Former player and manager Andy Hessenthaler is Jim's personal favourite

So out of all of those covered, who's Jim's own personal favourite?

He said: "Well, that's an easy one to answer: Mr Gillingham himself, Andy Hessenthaler.

"He was the ultimate leader on and off the pitch, always gave 100% and wore his heart on his sleeve."

If you are interested in buying a copy, visit the website.

Read more: The latest sports news in Kent

Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More