FANS who helped Colchester United defeat the winter weather have been rewarded.

Supporters volunteered to clear snow from the Weston Homes Community Stadium pitch earlier this week to ensure Saturday’s match can go ahead.

The faithful did the same ahead of the Southampton game last month.

The 25 fans who helped in December have each been sent a shirt, signed by the team, with the club planning to similarly reward fans who helped this week.

Sean McQuaid, operations manager, said: “We’re very grateful once again for the fans’ help in getting the pitch ready for this weekend’s game.

“Their help has ensured we are in a better place to prepare the pitch for Saturday.”

Hospital Radio commentator Ronnie Smyth was one of those who answered the call in December. He said he was “chuffed to bits” to be sent a shirt and a letter by U’s manager Aidy Boothroyd.

He added: “I worked for two days and I was a spent force afterwards.

“It was a great feeling to know I had done my bit to help the game go ahead in trying circumstances.

“It was a lovely gesture to get the shirt. I would be happy to go back again to help next winter.”