Dereham Town Football Club will be holding a testimonial match for their captain Graham Barrett on Thursday at Aldiss Park (kick-off 7.30pm).He has played in well over 500 games for the club at first team level since his debut at age 15 in 1995.

Dereham Town Football Club will be holding a testimonial match for their captain Graham Barrett on Thursday at Aldiss Park (kick-off 7.30pm).

He has played in well over 500 games for the club at first team level since his debut at age 15 in 1995. He has been involved in the Sterry Cup success, two great FA Vase runs, promotion to the Ridgeons Premier and two Senior Cup wins.

The game will be played between the current Dereham first team and an Ex-DTFC XI.

All players, managers and supporters who have been associated with the club are invited, as well as all local football supporters who wish to support Graham's fantastic and loyal career.

Manager Matt Henman said: “Having played with, and now managed, Graham over a number of years I don't think you can speak highly enough of what he has achieved and the loyalty he has shown to Dereham Town.

“Not only has he played over a long period of time but, as the club has progressed through levels of football and the team has improved, Graham has improved with it and is now playing as well as ever. He has been a big part of every success the club has had over the past 15 years and the amount of respect he has within the dressing room is immense.

“I know he has always been extremely proud to captain his home town's club and he has carried that responsibility immaculately.

Club chairman Simon Barnes said: “What can be said about Graham Barrett, top player, top attitude but above all, a top man.

“I had the privilege to play alongside Graham on a number of occasions, he was always someone I wanted in the same side, and I can honestly say that if I had to pick a side of the many excellent players I have been very fortunate to have played alongside, Graham would be one of the first on the list.

“For a manager he was a dream to work with, you always knew that you would get 100 per cent, and sometimes when things are going against you, you look for a player to step up to the mark, Graham was always that person. He stayed loyal to his local club, and I can not think of anybody else who deserves this night more than Graham.

“It just leaves me to say 'well done mate and, more importantly, thank you for all you have done for Dereham Town Football Club. Enjoy your evening'.”

Ex Dereham manager Steve Rishbrook added: “'Everybody acknowledges that Graham is an outstanding footballer but it is not until you play, or work, with him that you realise quite how good he is. Over the years he has demonstrated that he can defend, can create goals and can score goals. His workrate and commitment can never be questioned. He is the complete footballer.

“Modest and unassuming by nature, Graham puts what is best for the team ahead of personal preference and personal glory. This attitude, allied to his ability and versatility, is especially appreciated by those lucky enough to have managed him.

“In an era when player loyalty has become an all too rare commodity Graham's service to Dereham Town FC has been truly outstanding and his testimonial night is well deserved.”