A Familiar Voice Returns to Haig Avenue

Supporters arriving for the opening home game of the season at Haig Avenue will have noticed something that felt instantly right: the return of Nicola Cave as matchday announcer.

It may seem a small detail compared to new owners, a rebuilt squad and changes in the boardroom, but for many fans the announcer’s voice is one of the most consistent parts of a matchday. It is the backdrop to goals, substitutions and team news, and part of what makes the experience feel like home.

Nicola’s absence in recent years was never about her performance. The explanation given at the time was that Sandgrounder Radio would take over matchday announcing duties. In practice the change did not resonate with supporters, who made it clear they preferred Nicola’s familiar voice.

What left a sour taste for many was the way her departure was handled. Even when specifically prompted, the then board declined to acknowledge her contribution with so much as a thank you.

Her reinstatement, suggested by supporters and acted upon by the new owners, says a great deal about the change of culture at Haig Avenue. Where once valued contributors were allowed to drift away without recognition, they are now being welcomed back as part of the fabric of the club.

Nicola is also well known beyond Haig Avenue. She is a prominent figure within the Football Supporters’ Association, serving as Governance and Training Manager and Company Secretary. In that role she helps to develop and deliver resources to supporters and community-owned clubs on a wide range of subjects, from good governance to supporter engagement. She also has experience on the biggest stage, having served as an announcer at Wembley for the promotion play-off finals in 2018 and 2019.

It is a small but meaningful sign of progress. The new owners have spoken about rebuilding trust and putting supporters at the centre of Southport’s identity. Actions matter more than words, and on Saturday a familiar voice on the tannoy was proof that things really are starting to feel different.

Some changes are structural, some financial, some highly visible. Others are about restoring the connections that give a club its soul. Bringing Nicola back belongs firmly in that last category.