Blues get Iraq backing

AS tomorrow's showdown with Cardiff beckons, the Evening Star's campaign to get the Blues Back to the Top has spread far and wide.

The Tractor Boys go into the biggest game of the season knowing that a victory will guarantee them a place in the play-offs and give them a real chance to emulate Norwich by winning promotion.

And while most supporters will either be among the capacity crowd at Portman Road cheering on the team or watching live on Sky as the game is beamed across the country, one ardent follower will not be able to do either.

Mandy Crossland, of the RAF Police, is a regular visitor to Portman Road but is currently stationed in Basra, Iraq.

Suffolk born and bred, Mandy is a mad-keen fan and has kept up to date with the team's recent surge towards the top.

Mandy's Mother, Kathryn Crossland, said: "My daughter loves everything to do with the Town and is hoping to get a chance to at least see some of the game from her Iraqi base."

Support for the Blues in their pursuit of a return to the Premiership has come from the Evening Star's 'Back to the Top' campaign and brave Mandy has given the thumbs-up to our efforts.

"Whilst is as a worrying time, she thinks the Evening Star campaign is fantastic and is praying that when she arrives home the Town will be in the Premiership," said Kathryn, who is a first aider at Portman Road on match days.

Kathryn is the welfare development officer at Otley College and staff and students there have also backed our campaign to get the Blues back in the big time.

College spokesman, John Nice, said: "Most of our staff all read the Evening Star and we back the campaign to get Town back where they belong.

"Both our students and staff are hoping that Ipswich do well on Sunday."