Colchester United waved a fond farwell to Layer Road today.
But they were unable to do so with a win, after losing 1-0 to promotion-chasing Stoke City in the Coca-Cola Championship.
Richard Cresswell grabbed the all-important goal just before the break, converting Liam Lawrence's cross from close range.
The U's rarely threatened Stoke goalkeeper Carlo Nash's goal, with Dean Hammond coming closest with a long-range effort in what was a cagey encounter.
Layer Road was given a bumper send off by the club, with dancing girls, fireworks and plenty of nostalgia the order of the day.
Five former players were also entered into the official Colchester United Hall of Fame.
For a full match report, pictures, interviews and reaction to the U's game with Stoke City - and a 12-page supplement on Leaving Layer Road - see Monday's Colchester Gazette.
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