Watford mascot who angered Roy Hodgson quits job as Harry the Hornet | OneFootball

It is a sad day for football mascots and fans alike after the man who mischievously stands inside the Harry the Hornet costume announced he has quit the role.

Now infamous after irking Roy Hodgson having mocked Wilfried Zaha, the Watford mascot will have a new guise on Saturday evening for the visit of Manchester United after Gareth Evans announced he is stepping down from the role.

Crystal Palace boss Hodgson voiced his annoyance recently after learning Harry had dived infront of his star winger following Zaha’s booking for simulation as the two sides met in December 2016 – before Hodgson took charge of the south London club.

Last month, the former England boss fumed: “If you’re asking me whether Harry the Hornet, who I presume is the mascot, should dive in that way, I think it’s disgraceful.

“But of course teams try to take every advantage they can … I would be very disappointed if the Palace mascot was doing something like that to provoke the crowd against an opponent. And if I found out about it, I would stop it.”

However, just three weeks later, Evans has announced he will no longer be on duty at Vicarage Road and tweeted: I have officially stepped away from being the Match Day Mascot at Watford FC my decision, proud of what I have achieved, the memories made and the experiences I’ve had – I was privileged and now heavy hearted also. Love you Harry!

Whoever jumps into the suit will need to ensure they have as much sting as Evans.