COLCHESTER United are hoping to find a fast rhythm both on and off the pitch this season after supporters joined together to fund a new drum.
The initiative was led by U’s fan Steve Duckling, who set up a JustGiving page after noticing the old drum – a staple among the Colchester singing sections over recent years – was beginning to show its age.
Colchester supporters clubbed together to raise £600 in just two weeks for the bespoke drum.
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It was officially revealed at the club’s Open Day, with Colchester boss Danny Cowley invited to take centre stage for the unveiling alongside four U’s players and Eddie the Eagle.
The instrument features six images closely associated with the U’s, including photos of head coach Danny Cowley and assistant Nicky Cowley, mascot Eddie the Eagle and the stadium entrance.
“I thought it would be nice to do it on Open Day and that it would be good if Danny could be there, as he’s been instrumental in the communication with the fans and the friendship he and Nicky have built up with the fans since their arrival,” said Steve.
“We were down near the bottom of the league when they took over and their enthusiasm lifted the spirits, before any football was played.
“I thought it would be nice if he could reveal it, because he does appreciate the fans’ support for the players and he often mentions it in his post-match interviews.
“It was instrumental in my opinion that Danny was the one to do the reveal and the club kindly let four players come over too, along with Eddie the Eagle.
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“Danny was overwhelmed when he looked at the photos. He said he’d heard about it and it was very pleasing.”
Colchester supporters had been encouraged to contribute whatever they could to the campaign, with even small donations helping reach the target in quick time.
Any surplus funds have been passed on to the Blue White Army (BWA) supporters’ group, who will use the cash to further improve the matchday experience through flags, banners and displays.
Adam Law, a familiar figure among the club’s supporters, will continue as the main drummer.
“I can’t recall the actual lightbulb moment I had but I remember seeing the drum being a bit old and beaten up and the lads said they’d had it since 2019,” continued Steve.
“It made me wonder if we could get a bespoke drum made up – I had a look online, collected a few photos and sent them off to a couple of companies.
“We sorted out the imagery and got the new drum and I set up a JustGiving page to see if anyone wanted to contribute.
“Within two days, I’d raised half the money and by two weeks, the full amount was raised.”
For Steve, the drum carries deeper meaning beyond its role in generating noise inside stadiums.
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“Having the drum is vitally important,” he added.
“Me and my mate Sid, who passed away last year, used to love a good sing-song.
“We sat close by and joined in with the songs – we wouldn’t have the nerve to ever start the singing but the drum does that for you.
“Once you hear a couple of beats of the drum, you get used to what chant that represents and then you’re off.
“It’s a very important part of the atmosphere and it does help bridge the gap between the different ages in the fanbase.”
