Colchester United’s kit manager Brian Pugh returned from Huish Park three years ago minus some vital items of kit.

But having experienced the elation of seeing the U’s win promotion at Yeovil, he was inclined to feel a little more lenient than usual.

Pugh played his part in Colchester’s memorable 2005-06 campaign – and even has a medal to show for his efforts.

He travelled home and away with the U’s and experienced the same rollercoaster of emotions as the club’s players, coaching staff and supporters.

When it came to ensuring that Phil Parkinson’s side were kitted out correctly, his professional approach ensured that no stone was left unturned.

That was why boss Parkinson was keen for Pugh to play a part in Colchester’s animated post-match celebrations, both on the pitch and later on, at the Town Hall.

As he prepares to return to Yeovil with the U’s tomorrow, Pugh said his last visit there was a fantastic experience.

He said: “My memories from that day are of sheer elation and great joy.

“It was a privilege to be a part of a promotion-winning team.

“The momentum that we had built up over the course of the season reached a conclusion and it was the realisation of our dreams.

“It was a privilege to be on the coach coming back to Colchester that day and I’ll never forget that.”

Pugh has looked after the U’s kit for the past five years.

He has seen plenty of ups and downs in the time but naturally looks back on the promotion-winning season with particular fondness.

“Every player was very committed,” said Pugh, who lives in Great Horkesley.

“That’s what stood out for me about that team.

“Their focus throughout the whole season was on getting up to the Championship.

“We’ve done it once and we hope to do it again.”

l Colchester expect to welcome back several players for their final game of the season at Yeovil tomorrow.

Skipper Dean Hammond is set to return in midfield.

The former Brighton and Hove Albion player has missed Colchester’s last two games through suspension.

And Alan Maybury, Scott Vernon and Sunday Wasiu are all available again.

However, Steven Gillespie, Johnnie Jackson, Paul Reid and David Perkins are all still out.