TV presenter and lifelong Hammers fan Ben Shephard admits he will never forget presenting the closing ceremony at the Boleyn Ground and says it is the greatest job he will ever be given.
Shephard was honoured to lead the unforgettable proceedings following the memorable victory over Manchester United.
The Good Morning Britain presenter was joined by over 30,000 fans and millions watching worldwide on television as the Club enjoyed a unique event that brought an end to 112 years of West Ham in Upton Park.
Following a spectacular pyrotechnic and light show, Shephard was joined on the pitch by a number of former players who had won the prestigious Hammer of the Year award, while few could forget the final segment when the Club’s greatest son Bobby Moore returned to walk down the tunnel and turned out the Boleyn Ground lights one final time.
Having been part of many memorable experiences on television, Shephard says nothing will compare to him being part of a historic occasion at his beloved Club and says he will always look back with great pride and satisfaction.
Shephard said: “I kept having to pinch myself that I was out there. I could never have imagined that I would be leading the celebrations as a West Ham fan who used to come over and stand behind the goal when I was a youngster.
“It was an extraordinary experience and a real privilege. It was one of the greatest jobs I will ever be given and will be something I talk about with my kids and friends for many years to come.
“I keep getting stopped now and people telling me about the event. Someone was on holiday in the Bahamas watching, while another was in America. It was an amazing send-off and a fantastic farewell.
“The one thing that is placating my emotions of leaving the Boleyn Ground is that we are moving to the new Stadium, and I was lucky enough to work there during the Olympics and went to the Rugby World Cup. It is an extraordinary venue and was blown away by it.”