BBC Radio Derby Reporting

It's not all fans who are lucky enough to have in their possession, a season ticket. Many cant attend all games because of work commitments or simply because they can't afford to purchase one. Indeed if you are taking a family then you are talking a substantial withdrawal from the living allowances of most of them.

For those who are unable to attend games at any time, BBC Radio Derby does a great job in keeping the fans in touch with the goings on at Pride Park. That is provided that you are in range of the signal. Those unlucky enough to live too far away to pick up the station have to rely on listening in via Rams Player. This is a subscription based service provided on the official club website. I used to use this for the odd away game I couldn't attend, however the reliability leaves a lot to be desired.

Getting back to the Radio Derby team, the earliest duo I can recall commentating is 'The Legendary Graham Richards' and Ian Hall. Graham produced some classic moments in radio commentary such as 'Pick that one out of your net Mark Crossley, not a chance!'. He also was fond of having trivia questions, just for fun, when the game was entering quiet spells. His knowledge of East Midlands Football was second to none and he was passionate about Derby County.

When Graham retired a new young commentator called Ross Fletcher was let loose with the microphone and he and Ted McMinn provided many memorable moments that fans still like to listen to in the stations archives. The play-off win v Southampton was a classic Fletcher moment. 'This is so, so Wembley' roared Ross as The Rams won a dramatic penalty shoot-out. Ted on the other hand was a summariser that didn't pull any punches. If players weren't pulling their weight he wasn't afraid to say so. Not popular with all at the club, but what's the point in him being there if he can't give an honest opinion.

It came as a surprise to many when Ross left to go on to regional TV followed by his latest gig covering MLS over the water in the States. This happened during a season and another young commentator was thrust into action. Colin Bloomfield a man who admits to once being fired by McDonalds now had the responsibility of describing the action in a partisan, but interesting manner. Colin took to the job like a Duck to Water doing a very capable job and in his own style too rather than trying to mimic others. He's had quite a few different summarisers to get used to including Dean Sturridge, Gary Rowett and his current partner in crime, Roger Davies. I just love those Davies Rants!

I suppose I wouldn't be forgiven without mentioning the pitch side reporter and interviewer. Having done a similar role myself in the past (Albeit not live), it would be criminal not to mention Colin Gibson. A real legend of Derby and not afraid to ask awkward questions to players and managers. I personally thought the way in which he kept his cool whilst Robbie Savage had an on the air blast at him spoke volumes of his professionalism. Colin retired recently and as someone who often listens in on an earpiece whilst at the game, it doesn't half seem strange not hearing his voice.

Ed Dawes has stepped into Colin's shoes and to be quite honest, he sounds like he has been doing the job for years. I was fortunate enough to be part of the fans panel on Sportscene recently and it was interesting to see how relaxed and confident Ed is in the role. Finally perhaps we should remember the role that people like Owen Bradley play at the moment. Always there to step in and cover for those who are ill or on holiday.

Of course many of the names above are also connected with the Monday Night Sportscene Talk-in........but don't get me started on that show or this feature could take a negative turn and that's not a reflection on the hosts either!