In the latest of a series of features casting the spotlight on local football fans, West Hampstead’s Gareth Bannister reveals his favourite player, his most memorable matches and his toughest moment following Arsenal.

WHY ARSENAL? I wasn’t hugely into football when I was young but I started watching at university and really admired their style of play. This was only in 2009 so I can hardly be accused of being a glory supporter!

FIRST GAME: I think it was a Champions League group game against Olympiacos at the Emirates in 2009 – it was one of those teams we always seem to be drawn against! We got the win so it was a good experience.

FAVOURITE PLAYER: I’m torn between Henry and Bergkamp. Thierry maybe just gets in ahead after his return to the club in 2012 – he didn’t make many appearances but it was a privilege to watch.

MOST MEMORABLE MATCH: Back in February 2012, when we were 2-0 down at home to Spurs. Adebayor was gloating after his penalty and suddenly, out of nowhere, we pulled it back and won 5-2. The north London derby – you can’t beat it.

HIGHLIGHT: Winning the FA Cup in 2014. It had been far too long since Arsenal won a trophy and it finally put an end to those jibes about “how many years since you won a trophy?” – although we didn’t make it easy for ourselves against Hull...

WORST MEMORY: The summer of 2011, when we sold Nasri and Fabregas and lost 8-2 to Man United. To make matters far worse, my brother’s a United fan.

FUNNIEST MOMENT: A few months later when John Terry’s slip helped to beat a woeful Chelsea side 5-3 at Stamford Bridge. Bliss.

Are you a local Arsenal fan, and would you like to be featured? Email us at nwl.sport@archant.co.uk.