Nottingham Forest

In a summer that has seen many changes at the City Ground, the biggest headlines have been reserved for the changes of personnel – nine out, five in. "Chopping the deadwood" is a phrase that has been bandied about. Many fans are optimistic about the changes, and even though some of the outgoings will be lamented (most obviously Jack Lester), most Reds realise that change was inevitable in order to keep the club moving forward.

The summer has seen a lot of optimism, and the club have been keen to generate a "feelgood factor", which seems to have positively impacted on ticket sales and the mood of many fans.

Campaign begins here

Wiping a (metaphorical) tear from my eye, I vowed that if Sherwood was going to bow out, it wouldn't be without a fight. So, on Sherwood's behalf, I am going to fight the good fight. The campaign to save Sherwood has started on the "Nottingham Forest Blog" that I write with my brother. I have also written to the Nottingham Forest Marketing Manager, Brandon Furse, and the chairman, Nigel Doughty, to protest at Sherwood's retirement.

Everyone's furry friend

Why am I so animated about the demise of our furry friend? Well, that is exactly what he is – a friend. Sherwood always wears a big smile, he interacts with the kids and adults alike (including my thirty-something brother in the picture!), and anyone who has been at the ground will see the kids lining up alongside the pitch to exchange high fives and hugs with our lovable bear. At a time when the club has been at its lowest ebb in living memory, Sherwood has helped disgruntled supporters through the hard times, with a cheery smile, a wave and the occasional smartly taken half-time penalty (memorably prompting cries of "sign him up!" on one occasion). The club has lacked a true talisman on the pitch in recent years, so Sherwood's role should not be underestimated.

And what of Mr Hood? Well, I can understand the club's desire to align Nottingham Forest with the legendary character. However, as many fans have already opined on messageboards, it will only be a source of derision if our mascot is a rather sinister looking man wearing tights and a skirt. And am I the only person who thinks that Robin Hood looks a little bit like the club's Football Consultant, David Pleat? Many people have commented that they do not know what Mr Pleat's role is within the club, so maybe this is the answer!

Sign the petition

I intend to start a petition to present to the club on the eve of the new season (only ten days away!) – to add your name to the list, please send your full name and location to: savesherwood@talktalk.net (e.g. I would send "Rishab Baruah, West Midlands"). We will need your real name, but just let us know if you do not want it published as part of the campaign. I am hoping to get enough signatures to persuade the powers-that-be at NFFC to review their decision.

As some fans have pointed out on blogs and messageboards, maybe the mascot is not the most important thing – I certainly agree that promotion should be the number one priority! However, given Sherwood's noble contribution to the cause, I feel that he should remain as part of the matchday experience at the City Ground and hopefully play a key role in our end-of-season celebrations!