AFTER waiting a quarter of a century to see Boro in a European final, it's no wonder loyal fan Andrew Southall wants to remember the occasion forever.

So when we auctioned a shirt signed by UEFA Cup hero Mark Viduka on eBay, he was determined not to be outbid.

Andrew, a chef at the Scotch Corner Hotel, saw off rival bidders to pay £400 for the memento, with the funds all going to Middlesbrough Former Players Association.

"We've all been to all the away games in Europe so I'm going to frame it with the tickets," said Andrew, who is originally from Great Ayton but now lives in Barton, not far from the Boro training ground.

Andrew brought his wife Mandy and pals Glen Palliser and Ian Robson along to Rockliffe Park to meet Mark and former Boro striker Alan Peacock, chairman of the MFPA.

All four friends have been Boro season ticket holders for around 26 seasons. After the presentation they were given a tour of the training ground.

Alan thanked Andrew for the money, which will go towards the MFPA's charity work and grants to help ex-Boro stars in need.