FOOTBALL fans across March got the chance to see, and even hold one, of the most prestigious trophies in the country, when the FA Cup came to town. The cup which has been held by some of the most famous football heroes in the world, was at the Cambs Times

FOOTBALL fans across March got the chance to see, and even hold one, of the most prestigious trophies in the country, when the FA Cup came to town.

The cup which has been held by some of the most famous football heroes in the world, was at the Cambs Times on Friday as part of a unique publicity event.

The cup was brought to our offices by security guards from the FA and a representative from the sponsors e-on.

More than 50 people visited the office to get their once-in-a-life-time chance to hold the most-famous-trophy in the world.

The visiting football fans were given the rare opportunity to have their photograph taken with the FA Cup by our photographer Brian Purdy.

The cup, which weighs 175oz was brought to the Fenland area because Wisbech Town Football Club played their last FA Cup match at Fenland Park on Saturday against Mildenhall.

Nick O'Donoghue, from e.on, said: "The FA Cup is for everyone from Man Utd to the non-league clubs.

"We thought it's a great story about Wisbech Town FC and were only too happy to bring along the trophy to mark the occasion."

He added: "The trophy itself is priceless."

Among the visitors to the office was little Ross Groves, eight, who said: "I am quite excited to have held it."

Darren Grigas, who travelled from Peterborough, said: "It was an honour to have the chance to lift the crown jewels of the football world.

"I'll have a lot of very envious mates who missed this rare opportunity."

And the youngest visitor to our office was little Alfie Davis, who was just 10 months old who had been brought by his proud mum Charlotte.

Later that day the FA Cub was taken to Wisbech Town's Fenland Park ground where the Wisbech team drew 2-2 in their match.

The FA Cup is the oldest football competition in the world.

It was first played in the 1871-72 season.

It was played at the old Wembley Stadium in 1923 when Bolton beat West Ham 2-0.