One Of Our Own - Single
Graham Holness

If there’s anyone who probably should be known as ‘Mr Grimsby Town FC’, it’s Graham Holness.

Graham has been watching the Mariners religiously for the last 53 years and the popular Cleethorpes resident is known for making impromptu visits to Blundell Park during the week to say hello to club staff, coaches and players – or just about anyone he crosses paths with. From Lawrie McMemenemy to Paul Hurst – and everyone else in between – they all know Graham!


His passion for his hometown club has taken him all over the country, hundreds of times over, as a member of Disabled Supporters Club, Bernard Morley’s coaches and more recently via the Grimsby Town Away Travel Club.


In November 2015 Graham was diagnosed with bowel cancer and given just five years to live. However, following the success of his surgery and radiotherapy sessions, he recently got to ring the bell at Grimsby Hospital to indicate the end of his cancer treatment.

During the last six years, he continued to watch his beloved Mariners and the brilliant news means that Graham can look forward to the 2022-23 season… and beyond.


His first Mariners game was in 1969 when a 7-year-old Graham stood in the Main Stand with his sister Carol. He attended a few more games with his sister but after he moved down Harrington Street he started going to every game. During that time Graham saw Town claim back-to-back promotions in the late 70s, beat the mighty Everton at Goodison Park in the cup and win at Wembley twice in ‘98 – games he will always remember fondly.


Graham now goes to games – both home and away – with his brother George and the pair will be in the Upper Findus for today’s game. Some things in life you can be sure of.

"But there's none to compare with my Grimsby"

One Of Our Own is a collaboration between Grimbarians and GTFC to celebrate and shine a light on the unseen heroes that make the club tick.


Profiles can also be found in the match day programmes of the 21/22 season.


Words are by Jack Johnson (Super Clive Content) for Grimsby Town Football Club. Photography by Dan Clarke.

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