STALWART Steve Fletcher issued an emotional message to Cherries’ supporters – 30 years to the day he initially signed for the club.

The Cherries icon first arrived on the south coast as a player under Tony Pulis, back in July 1992.

He joined from his native Hartlepool, scoring 121 goals in 728 games across a 15-year spell at the Dorset club.

After spells at Chesterfield and Crawley Town, the forward returned to Cherries in 2009, scoring 15 goals in 135 more appearances.

He has since worked in various roles at Dean Court and is now part of boss Scott Parker’s coaching staff.

Addressing the crowd pre-match before Saturday’s pre-season friendly against Bristol City, Fletcher said: “I first signed here on July 23, 1992. I suppose as a teenager you can’t see past your first season.

“To be here 30 years later, coincides with my 50th birthday on Tuesday - if you want to send me some cards and presents!

“I’ve had an incredible time, some amazing memories, not just on the pitch but off the pitch as well.

“I’ve made some fabulous friends along the way. Married my wife down here, she’s a Bournemouth girl.

“My children grew up (here) and I do call this home now. So, thank you very much from the bottom of my heart and, hopefully many more years to come.”