John Birch

1954-1999

Aston Villa has honoured one of its most special spectators with a plaque in memory of John Birch, co-founder of the Aston Villa Disabled Supporters Club (AViDS) who died in December 1999.

The unveiling of his plaque took place at the John Birch Memorial Ball which was held at Villa Park on June 2001.  The ball was an idea suggested by John's sister Corinne, with the aim of honouring John's memory and also raising funds for AViDS.

Aston Villa supported and contributed to the event that Corinne organised with over 100 people attending.  A charity auction and raffle were held to raise funds for AViDS.  The evening was very successful and a cheque in excess of £3000 was presented by Corinne to AViDS as the proceeds from the Ball.

As a young lad, John enjoyed all types of sport especially football and supported Aston Villa by attending as many matches as possible.  He maintained his interest throughout his schooldays and further.

John's energy and zest for life led him to want to do something more.  He always felt that more could be done to help disabled fans enjoy the atmosphere of live football, and to introduce better disabled facilities in football grounds.

As a life long supporter he decided to become more active.   Along with a group of other supporters he became co-founder and driving force in the setting up of AViDS in 1999.  He was very proud to be involved, and it was John who thought up the name and designed the logo.

John devoted his organisational skills to working with the architects and fellow committee members to ensure the new Trinity Road stand facilities are among the best in the country.

The plaque is a fitting tribute to his untiring efforts, dedication and commitment to the Association and this in itself will have longer term significance. 

© AViDS Registered Charity No. 1089398