PRECIOUS memories of The Dell were never going to be enough for avid Saints fan Richard Prosser.

So instead, the Chapel season ticket holder has created a spectacular shrine to the famous old ground in the basement of his own home.

The vision has been three years in the making after Mr Prosser outbid all comers at the auction of The Dell in July 2001 to secure both the dugout and a turnstile at a cost of £410.

This week his efforts finally came to fruition with the grand opening by the namesake of what he has called the Lawrie McMenemy Suite.

Along with the original features, the suite also boasts:

Space for 25 people to sit

A 5ft widescreen television

Walls covered with Saints memorabilia including an original 1976 FA Cup final programme

An impressive snooker room named after fans' hero Matt Le Tissier, complete with Dell turnstile.

Mr Prosser, a lifelong Saints fan, lived in Sholing until 1988 before moving into his newly-built house in Andover three months ago.

The icing on the cake came when the legendary McMenemy agreed to officially open the amazing new basement in person at a gathering of family and friends.

"Lawrie was a gentleman and he has really done us proud. We are very grateful to him for giving up his time," said Mr Prosser. "He was our most successful manager and I have got nothing but praise for him and Saints for what they have achieved over the years."

Mr Prosser also paid tribute to his wife Jean for allowing him to pursue his dream.

"Without Jean's support none of it could have happened. I'm very lucky as I'm sure that not too many wives would give you a whole floor of their house," he added.

McMenemy, who led Saints to an FA Cup win as well as a succession of top-six league finishes during more than a decade at the club, said he was delighted to officially open the suite bearing his name.

"It's a wonderful gesture," he said. "I wish my old friend Brian Clough was here because along with Bobby Robson they used to pull my leg because they had statues and stands and suites named after them.

"But now I can proudly show off that I have a suite in my name - albeit about 30 miles away from the ground!"