Dad who ditched holiday is plotting Wembley comeback
Julian Wantling, a devoted Southend United fan, previously ditched a family holiday in Greece to attend the club's 2025 National League play-off final at Wembley, which they lost. This year, he is returning to Wembley for the FA Trophy final, bringing 13 relatives to support the team against Wealdstone. The family outing coincides with his father Doug's 80th birthday, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
- ▪Julian Wantling left his family holiday in Greece to attend Southend United's 2025 Wembley play-off final.
- ▪He is bringing 13 relatives to the 2026 FA Trophy final at Wembley, spanning four generations.
- ▪Southend United lost the 2025 National League play-off final 3-2 to Oldham Athletic.
- ▪Doug Wantling, Julian's father, is celebrating his 80th birthday on the day of the FA Trophy final.
- ▪Vivienne Wantling, Julian's wife, attended only one previous Southend match, their 2006 win over Manchester United.
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