Fairford Leys FC

About Fairford Leys FC

Find out here how and why we created Fairford Leys FC

Fairford Leys Football Club was the idea of a few local residents, who have a passion for football and wanted to create a social activity to make new friends and attempt to get a real community spirit going. Not only would it give us slightly older guys a chance to get some fitness back; we could have a good laugh, like in the good old days when we used to play!

We want to create a social and friendly club environment with a well supported competitive and successful football team. We do not wish to be too serious although we never like losing.

It is the club aim to progress quickly through the leagues and to develop further teams such as a Youth Team and Reserves.
The foundation of the club

Whilst kicking a football around for the first time in over a year at our home in Stafford Keep, Fairford Leys, it was obvious that we still thought we could play and that for some reason we had skill? After a few hours of sublime passes, tricks, touch and the odd ping off car bumpers (sorry - no damage done), the inspirational sound of Dave Stones voice hit the air.

“why don’t we start a Fairford Leys football club?!”

No doubt we thought that it sounded nice but a little far fetched, especially considering it was the end of June! Then came the swift realisation that there was significant interest from local residents and businesses. With all this positive interest we took it upon ourselves to plan the team requirements over a few beers at the local Chinese.

During this time we made contact with the Coldharbour Parish Clerk Keith Gray. When we run the idea past him he too gave us hope and inspiration. He informed us that the council would have possible grants available as well as funds directly from the local Parish. He then put it to us to create a report detailing our requirements and associated costs. At this point there was only just over a week until the next Parish monthly meeting so we had to work fast.

With our combined professional business experience, we were able get all the information required to compile the report with accompanying budget in the time given. As the league entry date for the season had already passed, it would be difficult to get the team entered into this years league. We took a gamble and paid for the affiliation number and league entry costs up front, without word from the council about our proposal and no finance. Happily after a long AGM of the league we got Fairford Leys FC in ready to play!

All we needed now was finance, players, somewhere to play, a logo etc. What were we thinking? Mainly that we will succeed, you watch us!

One week later we waited anxiously to hear the councils conclusion to our project. After briefly attending the Parish meeting, witnessing the topic being discussed, it was looking good but by no means secured. I was kindly given the opportunity to speak by the Chair Paul Hughes (a keen supporter from the start). After my long honest plea for assistance I wondered off back to the Chinese to await the outcome.

The result was magnificent. Those fantastic men and women of the Coldharbour Parish Council agreed to our proposal in full, and now fully support Fairford Leys Football Club. We thank them for their faith in us and our community driven objectives and we look forward to delivering on our promises.

Comments by: Stuart Goymer
Fairford Leys F.C. Founders:
David Stone (Club Chairman & Manager)
Stuart Goymer (Club Secretary)