THE organiser of Oxford United’s flag-bearing initiative got the chance to try it out for himself this week.

Fans fundraising group the 12th Man has raised more than £1,000 over the last two seasons from giving supporters the chance to lead the side out before games.

Paul Ridgley normally arranges the bookings but with no one down to carry it against AFC Wimbledon the 49-year-old was persuaded to step in.

The lifelong U’s fan was thrilled with the experience, particularly with his side going on to win the game.

He said: “I knew when I walked out there were 6,500 people with their eyes on me – it was my five minutes of fame.

“It was something special and way beyond what I expected.”

Visit www.ox12thman.org.uk for details on how to become a flag bearer.

Elsewhere, Oxford United need your help to win £30,000 in a competition with the other clubs in npower League Two.

The first to get enough fans to visit www.facebook.com/npowerFootballLeague will scoop a £10,000 windfall.

There is another £20,000 on offer for the club which has the most mentions on social networks between now and June.