A LIFELONG Hammers fan has written a book detailing the trials and tribulations that come with following West Ham United home and away for almost 60 years.

David Foulger, 64, of Basildon, attended his first match as an eight-year-old in 1962 - witnessing a rare Bobby Moore winner and Martin Peters forced to play in goal - and barely missed a game for the next 50 years, before the move to the Olympic Stadium.

He has put pen to paper on a book, West Ham United Us, which depicts football fans dedication to their club, and the effect that can have on the rest of your life.

He said: “It is all about the passion and obsession I have with following West Ham, and the effect that has had on my life.

“It starts with me going to my first game as an eight-year-old with my dad, then it follows my time with the club, and then concludes with me taking my son to a game at the new ground and my views on the move.

“It is full of funny and amusing stories that me and my mates, who have followed them home and away and abroad, have experienced over the years.”

The book was published earlier this month, and David is overjoyed with the response, especially from rival fans.

He added: “It all came about because an Arsenal fan wrote a similar book, and a few of my pals turned around and said ‘Dave, you could do that with West Ham’.

“I found it quite therapeutic in a way, it brought back a lot of really fond memories, and I am over the moon with the final product.

“Now I have fans of other clubs, in Tottenham and Chelsea fans saying it struck a chord with them.

“It is more than just a West Ham book, it is about football fans and their dedication.”

The book is full of funny memories, including Dave regularly being sent home from work on a Monday after an away day on Sunday, and his fond memories of a day trip to Belgium.

Visit amazon.co.uk/West-Ham-United-Dave-Foulger/dp/1521431671