BILLERICAY Town’s FA Vase heroes have reunited to celebrate the 40-year anniversary of one of their most famous triumph.

More than 200 supporters as well as ex-players and well-wishers flocked to New Lodge on Saturday to mark four decades since Billericay lifted the FA Vase at Wembley for the first time, although they were to go on and win it twice more in the next three seasons.

Billericay beat Stamford 1-0 back in 1976, and many of those who stepped onto the hallowed turf that day joined together to celebrate, including the captain that day Arthur Coughlan while the FA Vase itself made a special appearance.

Billy Bingham, Paul Norris, Fred Claydon, John Pullin, Doug Young, Freddie Clayden, Dave Emerick, Alan Webb, Alan Croton, Lester Foreman, Geoff Aslett, John Geddes and Paul Scott and Micky Payne were also present and Coughlan said it was a great evening.

“It was a really special day and a great turnout,” said Coughlan. “The response from the local community and former players was excellent and to see so many back here was wonderful.

“We had people come from all over and there were certainly more than 200 people there. There were so many familiar faces as well as some new ones and well and even the FA Vase was there.

Coughlan thanked Billericay chairman Steve Kent for letting them use the clubhouse, although says they will not be holding a reunion next year, which will celebrate 40 years since they beat Sheffield.

“We can’t be doing it every year,” laughed Coughlan. “But we will do it in 1979 for the last time we won it!”