Unsung heroes: Sue of the Family Enclosure
Sue of the Family Enclosure - a heartbeat of Everton, and Goodison Park. Story by Laura Gates with input from fans.
Some people make football more than just a game—Sue is one of them. She’s been a friendly face at Goodison for as long as I can remember, looking out for me since I was a kid. Match days wouldn’t be the same without her warmth and kindness. Although I no longer sit in her area of the ground, we catch up on social media and she checks in with my mum who sits in her block.
Whenever I get to see Sue at the match these days, it’s always a nice surprise.
Prior to kick off against Bournemouth in the FA Cup, I heard someone shouting my name down Goodison Road. When I turned around it was Sue, ready for a big hug.
“I’m off to go get my photo with the FA Cup, I can’t wait!”
I’ve always wanted to capture Sue at Goodison, as one of my main features of match days growing up.
When I asked Sue if I could share these photos, she said "of course, your family means so much to me too."
Since posting this story on social media, Sue has attracted so many comments full of love and stories.
"Sue is amazing she simply makes time for everyone. I agree she is always ready to give big hugs with a smile that lights her face up... She's a good listening ear too & gives good advice always cheers me up! I was really cold one match day...Sue came looking for me and actually gave me her cardigan to put on that she was wearing under her safety coat, I thought that was a lovely thing to do...Sue is simply the best" - Ann Reynolds.
" Wind rain or shine... Sue always has a smile on her face. Nobody jumps the queue at half time ha ha. She's boss is our Sue!" - Kris Kelly
"We’ve always loved seeing sue! So friendly and smiley! We sit in the family stand" - Tia Megan
"Sue us amazing, always so happy and love her hugs" - Ruth Lewis
"Sue is an absolute legend, welcomes me in at the turnstile for every game" - Jack
"Legend! Heartbeat of the family enclosure, always a pleasure to speak to her and takes no messing in the queue for the tea bar!" - Rob
"Ahhh Sue! Me and my partner met her at our hotel when we stayed in Paphos, Cyprus, had a lovely few chats and a little sing to some Everton songs! She's lovely" - Kirsty
It's clear to see that Sue is well loved amongst the Everton fanbase, a real unsung hero of the club.