COME triumph or defeat, Dan Castle is a staunch supporter of Swindon Town Football Club and avid collector of players' old shirts despite living nearly 100 miles away.

Dan's close following of the club's fortunes started when he was 19 and living in Marlborough. Now 31, Dan has re-located to Birmingham but still stands by the ailing team that thrived in his teenage years.

He said: "People think I'm mad when I tell them I collect memorabilia for Swindon Town. But it's a case of team loyalty. Every time I manage to acquire another shirt, it all seems worthwhile."

Dan, a secondary school drama teacher, has 150 shirts in his collection, including 13 authentic players' shirts, and is building a website paying homage to his hobby.

The most he has ever forked out is £100, for a 1986 home shirt worn by Chris Kamara. "It's worth every penny because it brings back memories of Swindon's golden years," said Dan.

He is a devoted member of the Swindon Town Football Trust and tries to get to the squad's main matches. Club director Bob Holt said: "This is just the sort of support we need. More people should follow in Dan's fine footsteps and help to boost team morale."