With the football season now at a close, Talking Hatters is continuing throughout the summer months and warmly welcomes both regular attendees and new faces to join us.
The closed season can often feel a little quieter for football supporters. With fewer matches to look forward to and more time on our hands, it’s important to stay connected, maintain positive conversations, and support one another. Talking Hatters provides exactly that – a welcoming space where people can come together, share experiences, and hear from a range of inspiring guests.
This summer, we are delighted to welcome several special guests who will bring their own powerful personal stories, unique insights, and important discussions around wellbeing, resilience, football, and life beyond the game.
Ella Preece – CHUMS Charity – Sunday 14 June at 7pm
We are pleased to welcome Ella Preece, who works for CHUMS, a leading mental health and emotional wellbeing charity and social enterprise supporting children, young adults, and their families across Bedfordshire, Luton, Kent and Medway.
CHUMS provides early intervention and targeted therapeutic support for individuals experiencing mild to moderate mental health challenges, helping thousands of families access vital support each year.
Ella is also the daughter of former legendary Luton Town goalkeeper David Preece and will share insights into the important work CHUMS carries out within our communities, highlighting the growing importance of mental health awareness and support.
Darren Salton – A Journey of Courage and Resilience
Former Luton Town defender Darren Salton will also be joining Talking Hatters to share his remarkable story. The date will be published soon, so keep an eye on the website and socials for the date.
Darren arrived at Kenilworth Road as a youth trainee in 1988 before signing professionally for the club in March 1989. This young Scottish Under-21 International was widely regarded as one of the club’s brightest prospects and made his league debut for the Hatters at Leeds United in 1992.
The composed central defender quickly established himself in the first team during the 1992/93 season. Tragically, his promising career was cut short when he suffered severe injuries in a fatal road traffic accident in November 1992.
Although a playing comeback was not possible, Darren remained involved in football, later managing Hitchin Town and serving as assistant manager at Hemel Hempstead Town and Slough Town.
His story is one of determination, resilience, and adapting to life’s unexpected challenges.
David Phillips – Walking in Memory and Raising Awareness
David Phillips will share a deeply personal and inspiring account of loss, remembrance, and fundraising.
Following the tragic loss of his son to suicide while serving in the Army, David has dedicated himself to raising awareness and supporting others affected by similar experiences. Most recently, he completed a significant fundraising walk in his son’s memory, demonstrating extraordinary strength and commitment to keeping his son’s legacy alive.
His story promises to be both moving and inspiring, highlighting the importance of mental health awareness, support networks, and community.
Watch out for the date to be announced soon
Mick Harford – A True Luton Town Legend
No introduction is needed for one of the most popular figures ever to represent Luton Town Football Club – Mick Harford.
A powerful centre-forward blessed with strength in the air and exceptional technical ability on the ground, Mick became a firm favourite among Hatters supporters during his time at Kenilworth Road. Forming a formidable partnership with Brian Stein, Harford was a key figure in one of the club’s most memorable eras.
Following his playing career, Mick remains an integral part of the club. He coached and managed the Hatters during the challenging 2008/09 season before later returning as Chief Recruitment Officer. In 2019, following Nathan Jones’ departure, Mick stepped up to guide the club through a remarkable six-month unbeaten run that culminated in the League One title. He would once again answer the club’s call when required during the 2022/23 Championship campaign.
Away from football, Mick has publicly shared his battle with prostate cancer and has become a passionate advocate for raising awareness of the disease, encouraging others to seek advice, testing, and support when needed.
Don’t miss out – keep checking for this forthcoming date with Mick Harford
Everyone Is Welcome!
Talking Hatters is about much more than football. It is about friendship, community, wellbeing, and bringing people together through shared experiences and meaningful conversations.
Whether you are a long-standing attendee, a Luton Town supporter, or simply someone looking for a welcoming environment and engaging discussions, we would love to see you join us during the summer months.
Join the meeting, meet new people, hear some incredible stories, and help keep the Talking Hatters community thriving throughout the closed season.
