A Canada-based Town fan has made an epic 18-hour journey in hopes of seeing his team clinch promotion. 

Former Ipswich resident Tristan Carter, who is also known as Stringy, is now Canada based but decided two days ago he could not miss out on being at today's clash with Exeter City. 

The 57-year-old has a season ticket but can only make a few games when he is back in Ipswich on holiday.

A win today takes the Blues back to the Championship.

The Professor of Archeology, who now lives in Hamilton, Ontario, said: "It was a last minute decision.

"I only booked my tickets two days ago. We've been waiting 23 years for this and I couldn't miss it. So I asked my wife if she minded me taking off for a couple of days.

"I went to the Barnsley game in 2000 when we got promoted to the Premier League. I left the UK in 2000 and lived in California for a while. But I still went to Town games in Milan and the Czech Republic.

"This is the power of football. It's a point of connection for all of us.

"I still wake up every morning to check my phone for Town news. I've got a lot of faith in the new management structure. McKenna and the players are brilliant.

"I think the Championship could be a bit more of a slog but I think we're good enough to be in the top half next season and then push for promotion in the next two years"

Mr Carter went to his first Ipswich game at the age of eight and he recalled watching Town play in the UEFA Cup with his dad. 

He enjoyed breakfast at The Cricketers ahead of the game with his friends, including Colchester resident David Boggis, who has been going to Town matches since 1972.

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Influential fans' group Blue Action is now encouraging supporters to welcome the team bus ahead of the League One match, which kicks off at 3pm.

The group said in a social media post: "We are calling on fans to line the streets of Sir Alf Ramsey Way and Constantine Road to welcome the team coach into the ground.

"The coach is due to arrive between 1.15pm - 1.30pm, so get there in good time.

"Bring your scarves, flags and banners and give McKenna and the players a proper Suffolk reception as we bid to secure promotion back to the Championship."

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