Former Lincoln City Goalkeeper Features on BBC's The Repair Shop
Former Lincoln City goalkeeper, Peter Grotier, brought a special piece of memorabilia on BBC's The Repair Shop in a show aired on Wednesday night, September 13. The 72-year-old made 233 appearances for Lincoln City between 1974 and 1980.
Grotier's Cherished Memorabilia
The ex-footballer carried into the show an old match day programme from his stint at West Ham United in 1970, remembered for a remarkable trip to Brazil to take on Santos. The match culminated in a 2-2 draw where Grotier shared the pitch with celebrated players like Bobby Moore and Pelé.
Pelé's Signed Match Programme
The programme held a special place in Grotier's heart, chiefly because it was graced with a signature from Pelé himself who he hailed as one of his sporting heroes.
Mission Preservation
Though the signed programme was in a poor state, Grotier's aspiration was to restore it and pass it down to his grandson, Joseph. "I would love Joseph to have it, he's a West Ham supporter and he also captains a local club. It's for him to see it and look back and remember my career perhaps when I'm not here." said Grotier with sentiment.
Rewind to Former Glory
The restoration task was entrusted to Angelina Bakalarou, a paper and paintings conservator, who managed to breathe new life into Grotier's cherished programme. Later in the show, Grotier was visibly moved on seeing the rejuvenated memento.
Upon gazing at the polished programme, an emotional Peter said, "Wow, that's unbelievable. It actually feels like I can open it now. It was a big thing in my life to play in that game and it all came flooding back then."
Storied Past in Lincolnshire
Peter Grotier shared that he and his family resided in Washingborough during his tenure with Lincoln City, where they still maintain amicable ties with their old neighbours. Winning the fourth division championship with a record number of points marked Grotier's favourite memory at the club.