Long-serving Club Photographer, Gerard Austin, has made the decision to 'hang up his lens', after an incredible period of almost 25 years of working for the Valiants.
Gerard - who first started watching the Vale as a supporter in the 1967/68 campaign - has officially been photographing matches since 2003 and will proudly bow out following our 150th anniversary season.
A truly remarkable servant to Port Vale and familiar face to fellow supporters at grounds up and down the country for nearly a quarter of a century, he and his content have been at the very heart of matchdays and events for some of the most memorable moments in the club's modern history.
While he will still be at Vale games as a supporter, and occasionally back at pitchside on matchdays, he leaves his role with the very best wishes of everyone at the football club. He will be given a life-time season ticket as a thank you for his service and received a special recognition award from the club this week.
Gerard said: "I have enjoyed an experience that very few people are privileged to do. I've loved my time at pitchside, through the rain, snow and more rain - Vale weather! I've also met friends across football that I'll keep for life, from all corners of the country.
"I'm proud to have worked for Carol and Kevin [Shanahan], Matt [Hancock] and Ryan [Grant]. I'm also proud of the plaudits I've received from fans, players and some of the best photographers in the game - it's always nice to be appreciated in most quarters. As for the future, here's to more promotions and less relegations!"
Vale's Director of Marketing & Communications, Ryan Grant, said: "Matchdays at Vale simply won't be the same without Gerard. It's difficult to put into words his contribution to - and love for - the club, and he'll be sorely missed in his role as Club Photographer.
"We spoke at length after the Chelsea game, and while we fully understand and appreciate that he feels now is the right time to step down and take time for himself, I know I speak on behalf of everyone at the club when I say we're gutted to see him go. Gerard will forever be welcome here, and we can't thank him enough for what he's given to the club over such a long period of time."
