Would you name your child after a football team? Baby Mariner-James Samways could be world's most aptly named Grimsby Town fan

SAY hello to Mariner-James Samways – perhaps the world's most aptly named Grimsby Town fan.

Born in February, the first child of Michael Samways and Demi Fitzgerald has been named after the boys at Blundell Park.

His parents, who live at Dumoon Court on the Willows estate, became an item over two-and-a-half years ago.

And while his mum was born in Lincoln, there was only ever going to be one team for the latest member of the Samways family.

Demi, 18, said: "From when we were expecting, we knew we wanted a unique name.

"I can remember being sat waiting for a scan early on, and Michael mentioned the name Mariner.

"I really liked the sound of it, and then we added James for my granddad.

"We both really like the name, and it shows how proud we are to be from the area.

"When Mariner-James gets old enough to start going to games with Michael, then I will go along and join them.

Michael, who is 21, added: "I've always been proud to be from Grimsby.

"I've always followed the club, ever since I was younger, and haven't missed a game for three years now since getting a season ticket.

"We don't plan on taking him to games until he is old enough, and by that time we hope to see the team back in the Football League.

"It would be nice for Mariner-James to see them in the Premier League, but I don't think it's likely to happen soon.

"We know it's an unusual name, but it's double-barreled so he can at change it if he wants to when he gets older."

Mariner-James was born on Thursday, February 13 – just two days before the black and whites were beaten 2-1 at Cambridge in the FA Trophy.

While that result brought about something of a downward spiral at Blundell Park, and ultimately another season in the Conference, there are happier times ahead following the arrival of the latest Mariner.

Michael gave his backing to Paul Hurst's men ahead of their new campaign which kicks off next month: "I've been saying it's our year for ages now.

"But with Luton and Cambridge out of the way, there really is a good chance they can get back up this season.

"They have made good signings, and hopefully Mariner-James can bring them some luck.

Grandmother Lisa Samways, 41, added: "I'm so proud of Michael and Demi.

"Mariner-James is my second grandchild, and we couldn't be happier as a family."

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