A WREXHAM man who returned to the area for the first time in over 40 years last week says he is 'still shaking' from the incredible welcome he received when visiting.

On August 19, the Leader reported on Martin Davies who had made his way back to Wrexham from Canada for the first time in 44 years.

Also known as 'Moody Marty', he was given a hero's welcome by Wrexham AFC at the Racecourse and by iconic local business Wrexham Lager too.

Now, in a follow-up interview with the Leader, Martin has revealed more about the visit which has left him feeling the love for his town.

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The die-hard Wrexham AFC fan intially moved to Canada, where he now lives in British Columbia, during the 1970's. 

He told us that two of his sisters emigrated there during that decade and, after travelling back and forth for a few years, his father saw an opportunity to 'start a different life' there, officially moving in 1978.

Speaking about his early memories of Wrexham before moving out to North America, Martin said: "My earliest memory would be being in the Kop (at the Racecourse ground) with my dad for a mid week game.

"It was a cold night but it didn’t matter. A full crowd with fans shouting and singing kept you warm.

"My favourite moment ever has to be when we thrashed Rotherham 7-1 and won promotion. I could go on and on about magical moments that year too."

Martin adds that returning to the Racecourse last week was a 'dream come true'.

He said: "Walking around town brings back so many memories. Some things have changed but it is still the Wrexham that is so close to my heart. I am still shaking from the welcome I have received.

"Everyone here from old friends, people that have recognised me on the streets and members of Wrexham AFC, staff and players, have been so kind, warm and welcoming to both me and my wife.

"My wife can’t believe how incredible everyone is being with us. Love is a very strong word and that is how we feel."

The Leader:

PIC: Martin Davies with Wrexham AFC forward Paul Mullin at the Racecourse last week. Picture by Gemma Thomas.

Like many others, Martin has been eagerly-anitcipating the launch of the 'Welcome to Wrexham' documentary which is airing on Disney+.

That is set to detail the club's takeover by Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney via an 18-episode series, being released two episodes at a time every Thursday until October.

Martin said: "Really looking forward to see the documentary not just for the football but for the incredible characters from our town. I’ve set my PVR to record everything.

"When there was talk about big names taking over the club I was a little sceptical. For me the club has always belonged to the people of Wrexham.

"When it was announced that it was Rob and Ryan and I heard what they wanted to do for Wrexham and the town, I got behind it right away. Also knowing that they had done lots of research about Wrexham before they invested."

The Leader: Wrexham co-chairmen Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds during a press conference at the Racecourse Ground, Wrexham. Picture date: Thursday October 28, 2021.

PIC: Martin is a big fan of Rob and Ryan!

Martin added he still watches Wrexham as often as he can from his home in Canada.

He added: "I can only get the streaming games when they are available so I tune in faithfully every game to Mark Griffiths' commentary.

"In fact, for week games my office door gets locked and people I work with know not to disturb me till after the game!"