IT seems there is always one element element Worcester City can always count on -- its supporters.

Whether it be a four-figure crowd at St George's Lane or a handful of fans at away games, Andy Preece's side always attract a partizan following.

Last night's long trip to Workington was no different. At least 10 dedicated fans travelled up to the Cumbrian coast to cheer on their team.

And before anybody scoffs at that number, let's consider the facts.

Workington is a long way --- 236 miles to be precise. The loyal fans who ventured north took the day or weekend off work and spent their hard- earned cash in the process. Travel, overnight stay, match ticket, half-time pie and pint, it all adds up.

Once such fan who made the journey is Darrell Butler, a 19-year-old mathematics student from St John's who is a familiar face on the City terraces.

Editor of the supporters' club website, Butler has been a season ticket holder at the Lane for the past four seasons and has been to most away games this calendar year, including everyone this season.

Yesterday he caught a train to Birmingham New Street and then on to Penrith, and will make the return trip via Carlisle, the best part of five hours, today after staying overnight with a Workington fan friend.

So what makes him and his fellow faithful go to the far reaches of the country to watch Worcester?

Butler, who planned the trip two months ago, said: "From watching matches as a youngster, it's in your blood. It's like an addiction.

"Once you've got the taste of it you enjoy it. I really enjoy going, I enjoy the company.

"It's a great feeling when we win, especially seeing them win away from home.

"The feeling you get of seeing them win is fantastic and it makes you want to go back.

"It's all part of a team -- the directors, the players and the supporters' club."

On average, City take up to 50 fans to away games and they were in fine voice as their team triumphed at Barrow, Worksop and Gainsborough Trinity.

Butler, who was joined in Cumbria by a City fan from Leeds, believes their presence spurs the team on.

"It's one of the best away supports in the league," he said. "The players always come over and see us at the end of the game. We chat to them afterwards in the bar.

"I like to think the support helps them and it's a reason why their away record is so good. But we have got support at home as well."

No doubt a reference to City's failure to recapture that away form at the Lane. But, on their travels, Worcester's following has certainly caught the eye.

Darrell, currently working at a bookmakers before going back to Coventry University, said: "I didn't go to Working-ton last year, which was the only time we have played them. There was a supporters' club coach to that one. I remember the Workington fans being impressed with our away support."

He added: "I am trying to make this my first season of going to every game."