The Imp which has gazed down from his perch high in Lincoln Cathedral for centuries is currently sporting a Lincoln City Football top as he celebrates his namesakes’ success!
Stuart Boyfield, the Cathedral’s longest serving member of staff, with almost 50 years’ service under his belt, is a lifelong Lincoln City supporter. He had the honour of dressing the Lincoln Imp for the first time in its history. He was cheered on by Lincoln City players Jack Moylan and Ivan Varfolomeev.
The iconic Imp carving, which is found in the Angel Choir in Lincoln Cathedral, has a rich history of myth and legend and has become synonymous with the city of Lincoln over the years, in particular with the football club, which is known far and wide as the Imps.
The Very Revd Dr Simon Jones, Dean of Lincoln, said it was a unique way for the Cathedral to mark the club’s achievements this season. He said: “Lincoln City Football Club and Lincoln Cathedral might seem like very different kinds of organisation, but at the heart of both are people and communities. The team’s performance has brought joy to so many people and there is a sense of pride across the city.
“As the home of the Lincoln Imp we’re delighted that the city, and the football club have taken him to their hearts, and dressing the Lincoln Imp in the colours of the club seems a fitting tribute to the success of the team and the wonderful passion of their supporters. We hope it brings a smile to people’s faces when they spot it.”
Attacking midfielder Jack said: “It has been up there for 800 years and they think this is the first time they’ve ever put anything on it, which shows how much the city has come together to get behind the football club.
“It’s great to see everyone come together to celebrate, and we’re so grateful to everyone at the Cathedral for their support”.
The Imp will keep its football shirt on until after the open top bus parade on Saturday 9 May.