MEMBERS of the Stourport-on-Severn Vale of Leithen Supporters Club literally flew the flag for their favourites during the recent England Women vs Portugal friendly at the Stadium MK.

The trio of Mark and Ryan Coton and Jessie-May Garfield adopted the Innerleithen side during lockdown after growing increasingly disillusioned with the professional game south of the border.

Birmingham City fans Mark and Jessie, and West Bromwich Albion fan Ryan noticed that Vale seemed to be losing every week, so started to follow their fortunes.

And they have been fervent fans ever since.

In April they made the 560-mile round trip to watch Vale take on Tynecastle and all went well for the opening 16-seconds before the visitors scored.

Vale rallied and produced a spirited performance despite losing 3-0.

The group were treated to some famous Borders hospitality however and vowed to return to watch Vale pick up the East of Scotland First Division title.

In the meantime though they had to be satisfied watching England’s 0-0 draw with Portugal in their last game at home before they travel to Australia for the World Cup.

Mark said: “Surprisingly we were the only Vale fans there!”

Wilson, the latest member of the supporters club, didn’t make the game but wore his new Vale hat back in the house.

Meanwhile Vale have lined up three friendlies ahead of the league campaign,

On Saturday (July 15) Ian Flynn’s men face Pumperston JFC (at Auchindinny) with a 1.30pm kick off.

On Thursday (July 20) they host Kirknewtown AFC with a 7.30pm kick off. Then on Tuesday, July 25, they have a home game against Edinburgh United, which kicks off at 7.30pm.