Local history

A survey by Littlewoods Pools found the Meadow Lane fans have the toughest time of all - enduring manager changes, poor performances and heart-stopping games.

Only last year, they only assured survival in the Football League with a last-minute penalty in the final game of the season.

Colin tries to unwind

Based on this, we asked BBC Radio Nottingham's Magpies commentator for his views.

But aware he may be a little stressed out, we provided the most relaxing environment possible.

So Colin Slater joined us at The House of Beauty, just a stone's throw from Meadow Lane, for a session of pampering.

As he enjoyed a back massage, head rub, facial treatment and manicure, Colin told us why it is so tough being a Notts County fan.

A head rub can be helpful

Top of the list was the constant pressure of being compared to Nottingham Forest.

"Notts have lived in the shadow of Forest for 50 years," Colin said.

The Magpies' well-documented financial troubles have also weighed heavily on fans.

Eighteen months in administration brought "real apprehension that the oldest club in the Football League would fold," Colin said.

And of course the club's "appalling" home record over the last four seasons was a further cause of misery.