Bedford Town Football Club Brochure 2022

Of fic ia l B ro ch u re 20

22

| 2 02 3

If you want to love your bathroom and kitchen come to P&R.

Contemporary or Classic Kitchens AEG Appliances Kitchens from Pro Norm and our won brand (UK made)

Exceptional Bathroom Designs Bathrooms · Showers · Tiles · Flooring +50 bathroom displays from Villeroy + Boch, Hansgrohe, Dansani and more

FULL FITTING SERVICE OR SUPPLY ONLY OPENING TIMES MON-FRI 9AM - 5PM SAT 10AM - 4PM

P & R Interiors | 9 Lurke Street | Bedford MK40 3HZ Tel: 01234 352414

Email: sales@pandrinteriors.store

www.pandrinteriors.co.uk

D L FIN YO U’L R T H E E D N U S U S TO R E Y IM U LT PA R K CAR

all photos by club photographers Jane Jones and Tom Hall 05 08 11 13 19 21 23 32 33 35 40 43 44 46

welcome history Club honours 2021/22 season review Tickets & season tix QR Code club shop Sponsorship packages Matchday hospitality Event & function room hire Meet the volunteers Charity & Community outreach Mascot Experience Days BTFC Youth Development How to find & contact us

Bedford Town Football Club & Ludis would like to thank all of the businesses that appear in this publication for their support and wish them continued commercial success. The content of this brochure is believed to be correct at the time of printing but we cannot endorse individual statements and readers should not rely solely upon the continued accuracy of any individual claims contained herein without consultation with the service provider.

Designed and Printed by Ludis 2022.

01273 510 400

www.ludisgroup.co.uk

Need some help with your

trees?

STS Simply Tree Services • All aspects of tree maintenance to BS3998 • All hedge work undertaken • Tree removal and stump grinding

01234 765 000 07866 554 673 enquiries@simplytreeservices.co.uk

www.simplytreeservices.co.uk Fully NPTC qualified staff and all work is covered by comprehensive public liability insurance

Bedford Town Football club is situated on the eastern side of Bedford and conveniently located close to the A421, A6, M1 and A1 trunk roads, providing excellent routes for major towns and only 50 miles from London.

Nicknamed The Eagles, Bedford Town FC was formed in 1908 and in the early 1980s after a few ups and downs the club folded when the owners of the Old Eyrie ground in Queens Park, terminated the lease. The club was later reformed in 1989 to Meadow Lane where we still reside today. With the help of the local council and a group of ‘trueblue’ loyal fans, the club had a new home at The New Eyrie. The club is steeped in glorious history including playing matches against formidable professional teams like Arsenal, Everton and Newcastle, in the FA cup in the 1950s & 60s.

We are a charter standard club and the premier football club in the town of Bedford and currently

5

welcome

play in the Southern League Premier Central which is the 7th tier of English football, three tiers below the football league. Bedford Town Football Club are committed to the football community and we strive to help, encourage and develop as many local players through our very well-run progressive youth system.

We are very proud to have brought players through the ranks, into the senior team and further, over the years. We encourage individuals to be proud to wear our club badge and be involved in their hometown football team.

Our superb facility is well known in non-league football for its light and airy function room, the Maxey Suite. On matchdays, the suite serves as the clubhouse for spectators but the facility is also regularly used for weddings, parties, seminars, courses and other events & gatherings. The club has been completely transformed over the last four years with a full time Commercial & Operations Manager who is responsible for the day-to-day running of the Club along with some invaluable volunteers who

to be continued

CHAMPION-ELECTRICAL

For a reliable and friendly electrician!

NO JOBS TOO BIG OR SMALL, FROM A SINGLE SOCKET TO A COMPLETE RE-WIRE!

ALL ASPECTS OF ELECTRICAL WORK INCLUDING FAULT FINDING AND TESTING

CONTACT US FOR A FREE QUOTE.

07449 541 346 bobchamp77@gmail.com

CHAMPION ELECTRICAL

continued

7 have surpassed the call of duty. While our pool of volunteers is only small, we are blessed to say that nothing is too much for these loyal fans

welcome

who are very proud to be a part of this fantastic football club, which is only going in one direction… on the up!

we have made great strides on the football pitch and so far, our quality has been able to shine through as league champions.

Message from the owner jon Taylor

“We would like to thank our fantastic sponsors, new and old, who have helped the club move forward in a positive direction in the last three to four years. As a club we have been able to make many improvements since the takeover of ownership in January 2018 and we have really stepped up the quality of our facilities, particularly our superb function room. This season we have made great strides on the football pitch and so far, our quality has been able to shine through as league champions.

Attendances have risen significantly by 99% and we have had great backing from the Bedford community at all of our home games. Moving towards the future we are looking for partners to join us on our journey in this new era to help propel the club further forward to where we believe we should be.

Our aims and aspirations are to continue to invest in the facility to bring us up to a level that could potentially take us to the EFL one day. Our main short-term objective is to fulfil the football club’s potential and play at the highest attainable level whilst being a fully sustainable business.”

Formed in 1908, Bedford Town Football Club has had a mixed history, In the early years, the Eagles played from their home in Queens Park, in the United Counties League and later the Northampton Alliance. At the end of the second world war, Bedford Town moved to The Southern League, and in February of 1951, a muchneeded boost came in the form of former Arsenal, Fulham, Crystal Palace & England forward Ronnie “Rookie” Rooke, as Eagles player/manager.

In the 50s and 60s, Bedford Town earned national fame as ‘Giant Killers’, seeing off the likes of Watford, Norwich, Newcastle, Exeter, Brighton & Oxford in numerous FA Cup runs. But possibly the club’s greatest achievement was to draw 2-2 with Arsenal at Highbury in front of 55,000 supporters in the 1955-56 season. The Eagles nearly caused a major shock in the replay, leading 1-0 with four

8

history

minutes left on the clock, before having two goals disallowed for offside and eventually going down 1-2 after extra time.

In 1982, 74 years at the Eyrie came to an end, as the club disbanded when the owners of the football ground in Queens Park exercised their right to terminate the lease, while simultaneously, new stadium plans on Barkers Lane fell through.

On 5th May 1989, a group of Eagles supporters began a campaign to re-form Bedford Town Football Club. The opening match of the New Eyrie Stadium was a friendly against Peterborough United, watched by over 3,000 supporters.

bedford town - Arsenal F.C. | 12th January 1956

In the years that followed, the mighty Eagles achieved great success in the non-league football pyramid from steps two-four and currently play at step three in the Premier Division of the Southern League Central after winning the title in the 2021/22 season.

11

CLUB HONOURS 1930|31

1932| 33

1933| 34

1958|59 1963|64

1965| 66

1969|70

2021| 22

1974|75 1974|75 1980|81 1992|93 1993|94 1995|96

2004| 05

1998|99

CLUB HONOURS & RECORDS

United Counties League Division One Winners Southern League Winners FA Cup Fourth Round Southern League Division One Winners Southern League Division One North Winners FA Trophy Semi-Finalists Southern League Cup Winners South Midlands League Division One Winners South Midlands League Premier Division Winners Bedfordshire Senior Cup Winners FA Vase Fifth Round

RECORDS 1963|64

1965| 66

1974|75 1998|99

Best FA Cup performance: Fourth Round Best FA Trophy performance: Semi-Finals Best FA Vase performance: Fifth Round

Record at tendance(s) 1 2 th F e b r ua ry 1966 6 th A ugus t 1993

18,407 vs. Everton, FA Cup at The Old Eyrie 3,000 vs. Peterborough Utd, friendly at The New Eyrie

Different picture from any posters?

Please provide Photoshop file with layers

WINDOWS LTD Aluminium & PVCu • Windows • Doors • Curtain Walling

lp

Our NEW Trade Counter is now OPEN!

For all of your Plastic Window and Door needs.

Compe��ve prices for Supply Only & Supply and Fit Find us here – KCW Windows 25A Shuttleworth Road Bedford MK41 0HS

We stock Espags, Window and Door Handles, Gear Boxes, Cat Flaps, Cylinders, Sealants, Foams, Hinges, Fixings, Sprays, Cleaners, Tapes, Packers, Vents and so much more!

There is always a solution!

Kestrel Plastic Trims In Stock!

We have been supplying high quality products to Trade and Domestic customers for over 40 years!

kcwwindows

KCW Windows Ltd

01234 269911

www.kcwwindows.com

2021/22 SEASON REVIEW After two curtailed seasons declared null and void, Gary Setchell wanted to give the Eagles fans something to shout about for the 2021/22 season. Here’s some of what Gary had to say, looking back at a championship winning season at Bedford Town FC. We went into the season with hopes of getting a promotion, whether that be the playoffs or winning the league. We felt that there were seven/eight teams genuinely who could probably compete for the title and finish in the playoff spots. We got off to the best start possible, 5-0 up at halftime at Waltham Abbey and winning 5-2.

Then we had one or two injuries and suspensions which affected us against Dunstable, Hertford who we only just beat and then probably the worst night of the season against Ware, losing 3-2.

13

2021/2022 season review

I knew then, that things needed to change. We needed the missing link. Losing two of your first five when you’re going for promotion isn’t ideal.

We found that missing link through Rory McAuley.

We brought him in and his first game was a bit of a crossroads game away at FC Romania. If we win, we’ve won two in four which is a reasonable start.

Whereas if we lose, we’ve won three and lost three, which is a very average start. Away from home and pouring down with rain we picked up a magnificent 1-0 win through a Callum Donnelly goal and that literally was the turning point. Then we went on a great run where our only other league loss all season was away at Berkhamsted. From then on, we were playing cup football. We were relentless but so were Berko. They just kept winning.

TBC

By Christmas it became clear that it was a three or four horse race for the title. We knew we had a tough January and that was going to be ‘sink or swim’. We had some real tough games, beating Ware away on that famous day when we scored two in injury time. We then beat Berko at home in front of 1,200 people. Then we had some kind fixtures leading up to the Welwyn and Dunstable games, which we knew were going to be tough. Beating those two with Berko slipping up at Harlow and the rest is history. Brilliant season.

to be continued

01234 401261 SaLon@inFiniteBeaUtytHeRapy.Com

11 HiGH StReet kempSton

massage lasHes & BroWs Waxing

reFlexology Hands & Feet Facials intimate Waxing

Experience the difference ma k e an a p p oi n t m en t today

www.infinitebeautytherapy.com

indian Head massage

continued

2021/22 SEASON REVIEW I was always hopeful we could win the title but the real moment in the season I knew it was after January. I knew that we could turn the screw. We had a lot of fixtures against teams further down the league. I genuinely felt we could go through February and March without dropping many points.

Obviously, the big game was Berko as that put us in the box seat and we never looked back, only dropping points against a strong North Leigh side.

We were relentless. And to finish the season on a 25-game unbeaten run is pretty phenomenal. To only lose one game from September in the league is also phenomenal and these players stepped up in every which way but loose. They just kept getting better and better week-by-week. And the longer the season went on, the better we were getting.

That was a real credit to the players.

The consistency of the team and camaraderie within the squad has been strong throughout. I’ve never been one for wholesale changes because I try and back my judgement in the summer and you’ll always get one or two that don’t work out and move on but we only used 21 players in the league this season which is quite a low number. Sometimes I was going to games with just two players on the

15

2021/2022 season review

bench. I didn’t want to just bring new players in, because when you get your players back you’ve got to stick people in the stands again.

Next season we’ll definitely keep that small squad mentality. There’s a lot of established step 3 teams in the league but we’re not going to go to just make the numbers up. Yes, we’re not an established step three side yet. We’ve got to try and build that up over the next year or two. We’ve got a lot of momentum and togetherness and we can play as well, so there’s no reason why if we get a good start next season, we can’t continue with that momentum. There’s going to be some tough afternoons of course, but there’s going to be some brilliant afternoons as well.

Everyone at the club has done a great job last season.

From the director at the top, right down to the bar staff. Everybody in between has been tremendous. There’s too many to mention but there was no weak link in the whole club last year. Everyone carried out their job to a high standard and enabled my job and the players’ job easier. I’m looking forward to welcoming the fans back for step 3 football and pushing the club further up the non-league football pyramid.

the team

Bedford Town FC 2021/22 Squad

ALL WORK

EED

GUARANT

BILITY

UBLIC LIA

NP £10 MILLIO

ES

BLE PRIC UNBEATA

We Are Experts At Roofing, Flat Roofing, Guttering, Fascia & Soffits and Chimney Rebuild

CALL FOR A FREE QUOTE

Do You Need A Free No Obligation Quote For A New Roofing & Guttering?

0800 9330 732

01234 633 142

info@jtdroofingandbuilding.co.uk

07740 028 004

19 Paradine Road, Bedford, MK42 OJA

www.jtdroofingandbuilding.co.uk

19

Admission & Season Tickets

tickets

All season cards admit the holder to home, league matches only (excluding play-off/ cup matches).

Here at Bedford Town, we offer a range of affordable tickets for the whole family.

Since 2019 we have partnered with Kaizen Ticketing to bring the option for online advanced tickets to our supporters.

For the best value for money, you can purchase a Bedford Town season card which includes admission to all 21 league matches at The Eyrie Stadium.

Furthermore, all season card holders will receive the following benefits:

Booking in advance is the best way to guarantee entry, but also helps us as a club prepare efficiently while ensuring your matchday experience runs smoothly. Tickets are also available to buy on the turnstile by cash and card for a higher price for those last-minute decisions to attend!

■ ■ ■ ■

Discounted purchases from the Eagles bar on a match day Discounted tickets for matchday hospitality admission Discounted hire of the Eagles bar for private functions Free entry to any Bedford Town Youth matches scheduled at The Eyrie throughout the 22/23 season

Season Ticket Adult Concessions & Under-21’s 10-15 Year Olds Under-10’s

Become a vice-president

book now Advanced tickets are contact free, paper free & hassle free!

with a VP season card for £499 which includes all of the above, plus a guaranteed seat in the VP seating area, a free matchday programme and a reserved parking space on matchdays.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS Concessions are classed as OAP’s, students, people aged between 16 and 20, unemployed people and people with disabilities.

Proof of benefit entitlement is required for unemployed & disabled persons and photographic ID for proof of age. Season ticket includes admission to all home League games only, excluding play-offs and cup games. All Season or VP tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable

£185 £125 £55 FREE!

Brown

Cream

Blue

Green

Summer’s too short for painting fences.

Choose 25 years maintenance free metal fencing*. Choose ColourFence.

Unique ColourFence GUARANTEE

Why choose anything else?

◆

◆

◆ ◆

Virtually, maintenance FREE for 25 years* Won’t warp, crack, shrink, rot or peel Withstands gusts up to 130mph

◆ ◆

Metal fencing available in four colours Established in the UK for over 15 years Professional installation

For a free, no-obligation quote, find out more via:

YEAR 01234 949 000 | colourfencebedford.co.uk 25 GUARANTEE *T&C’s apply – see website for details

CLUB SHOP

21

CLUB SHOP

In 2022 Bedford Town Football Club took full control of the selling of club merchandise from the former occupants, Bedford Town Supporters Club.

The Supporters Club setup the fantastic club shop in the mid 2000s, selling shirts, scarves, ties and various other types of merchandise to fans. As the club’s presence has increased in the area, so has the need for more merchandise. From the start of the 2022/23 season, Bedford Town FC will be bringing a brand-new selection of merchandise to the fans.

visit our online shop All items are available to purchase online too at the club shop website via www.bedfordeagles.net

100%

Clients

Make your booking

Oasis

sales@oasisvaletingbeds.co.uk

www.oasisvaletingbeds.co.uk

Incredible vehicle maintenance to your doorstep!

The newest name in eco-friendly mobile mobile car valeting and interior cleaning services servicing the Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes areas.

Being fully mobile gives you the power to never skip on convenience, we will attend your home, work or anywhere else you require our services.

07949 421570

Locate

Book

Wash

Whether at home, work or otherwise, simply let us know where your vehicle is and one of our pros will be on hand.

Specifically designed around you!

Whether Today, Tomorrow or Next Week, book our services whenever you need it.

Rest assured one of our experienced wash specialists are will be on hand to take care of all your vehicles maintenence needs.

Why choose Oasis Valeting?

The #1 mobile valeting team in Bedford!

The perfect solution for personal and commercial clients.

Years of experience in understanding individual vehicle needs.

We only use the highest quality car care products.

We have the most dedicated support team available 24/7.

SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES With our impressive 3,000 capacity stadium, stunning facilities and a talented team competing one step below the national league system; there’s never been a better time to expose your brand or business with Bedford Town Football Club.

We have a number of ways you can become a partner with Bedford Town Football Club, depending on your budget. We are proud to support local businesses. If there is a new level of sponsorship not listed that would interest you, please get in touch and discuss how we can meet your needs.

*All prices are exclusive of vat

Stadium Naming Rights Package

£poa

Your company’s name will be incorporated into the traditional stadium name and be exposed with all football press & media outlets. Full logo-branding on the exterior of the stadium on entry to the ground and four perimeter banners to be positioned pitchside in premium exposure spots. Stadium name & company logo will be featured on the club website, matchday programme, google search, maps search, social media banners, media interview backdrop and the Eagles TV YouTube channel. You will receive four season tickets for each season to be used at all home league matches, plus four pitchside perimeter banners The ultimate package to enable a business from the local community to become part of the town’s footballing future.

23

sponsorship packages

social media followers

5,000

8,500

Pitchside Advertising

3,000

from £425

We offer various types of pitchside advertising if your target audience is those attending matches or you want exposure in the local and national press. All prices are exclusive of vat and include design and manufacture costs.

■ Perimeter Advertising**

Get your brand pitchside and seen by thousands every week plus photos in the local and national press.

Our perimeter banners surround The Eyrie pitch

£425 p/annum

£300 p/annum renewal

■ Elevated South Stand Advertising**

Our six metre elevated advertising boards offer the same benefits as perimeter boards, but with added exposure.

£1000 p/annum

£800 p/annum renewal

■ North/East Stand Advertising**

Have your company name and brand across the entire north or east stand. As well as exposure to spectators, these are seen by thousands of passing cars travelling on the A421 trunk road daily.

£3,500 p/annum

**Price includes design and manufacture and you’re in full control of the aesthetics of the banners.

£3,000 p/annum renewal to be continued

24

the team

welcome

TBC Combining wonderful scenery with the natural wildlife of squirrels, water fowl, buzzards and deer, Downfield offers a truly challenging and enjoyable experience to all golfers regardless of their abilities.

The course played host to the first ever Scottish Open, the 1999 and 2007 Open Final Qualifying,

the British Seniors Open Qualifying and the Scottish Amateur Championship on many occasions.

Combining wonderful scenery with the natural wildlife of squirrels, water fowl, buzzards and deer, Downfield offers a truly challenging and enjoyable experience to all golfers regardless of their abilities. The course played host

n ame | p o si ti o n

na m e | pos ition

na m e | p osi t i o n

n am e | p o si t i o n

n am e | p o si t i o n

n am e | p o s i t i o n

n ame | p o si ti o n

na m e | pos ition

na m e | p osi t i o n

n am e | p o si t i o n

n am e | p o si t i o n

n am e | p o s i t i o n

Your best hair affair CALL FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT 07393 830654 Greyfriars Arcade Shop 11 | 9 Greyfriars Bedford MK40 1HJ MON | SUN CLOSED TUE | FRI 09:00 - 17:00 WED | THU 09:00 - 20:00 SAT 09:00 - 15:00

HAIRBYATHINA

HAIR BY ATHINA

continued

27

Dugout and Player Tunnel Sponsorship from £1,375

Match Kit Sponsorship

Have your brand printed across the interior and exterior of the team dugouts and/or player tunnel. Perfect as a pair for exposure at both sides of the pitch. Also available separately too.

Kit sponsorship is one of the most prominent forms of advertising. A tried and trusted method of increasing brand awareness, generating exposure and offering a huge amount of goodwill in return.

sponsorship packages

from £1,000

From as little as £1,000 per season, you can advertise your company or brand in the following areas of our adidas match kit worn by the team, home and away, plus spectators: ■ Main shirt sponsor available from 2024/25 ■ Rear shirt sponsor (between shoulders)*** ***Available from 2023/24 ■ Rear shirt sponsor (lower back)*** ■ Sleeve sponsor ■ Shorts sponsor ■ Training & travel kit sponsor ■ Kit and equipment sponsor from £1,000 p/season

Marquee sponsorship

£1,750

*All prices are exclusive of vat

Our marquee is erected all year round and situated on the east part of the ground next to our clubhouse. Brand will be positioned on the front of the marquee, which is used not only on matchdays, but for a multitude of private functions every year, including but not limited to, comedy shows, parties and weddings.

£1,750 p/annum

£1,500 p/annum renewal

Player Sponsorship

£125

Sponsor a player or coach of your choice for £125 per season. Your name or brand will be written below the player profile on our club website and matchday programme You will also receive regular exposure on our website and social media accounts throughout the season as the players score or receive their own exposure, plus a 2022/23 squad photo signed by your sponsored individual.

£125 p/season

to be continued

BY APPOINTMENT TO HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN SUPPLIER OF TWO-WAY RADIO COMMUNICATIONS RADIO LINKS COMMUNICATIONS LTD ST. NEOTS, HUNTINGDONSHIRE

Established for 50 Years

Proud to Sponsor Bedford Town Football Our digital two way radio communications products from both Motorola and Hytera are extremely rugged and reliable and suitable for use in the harshest of environments

Domestic & Industrial High tensile felt/Rubber membrane Repairs & Replacements 15/20 year guarantees For a free quote contact Malcolm

01234 346 669 07771 572 639 info@malcolmhenrickson.co.uk

Supplier of adios w T o Way R

New System ocess Consultancy Pr

Charge Free of it Demo K

Two Way Radio Hire

n unicatio t Comm n e v E s e e ckag Bespok ment Pa Manage Full Time Service Department

Give us a 01480 217 220 OR info@radio-links.co.uk

www.radio-links.co.uk

continued

29

Matchday Sponsor

£225

Your company name will be mentioned on the stadium PA before and during the game. Includes four complimentary VIP tickets to the match and a two-course meal in our hospitality suite before the match. A full-page company advertisement will be printed in the matchday programme for that fixture, plus your company logo on the front cover. You’ll also get the privilege of choosing the man of the match and presenting them with their prize keg of Bedford B&K brewed beer.

Furthermore, your company logo will also be located on our social media matchday graphics. A photo with the presentation will also be published to our social media accounts. £225.00 plus vat per game.

*All prices are exclusive of vat

sponsorship packages

Turnstile Advertising Noticeboard from £900 Our noticeboards are located before the entrance to our turnstiles where around 1,000 fans walk past each week.

They are around 1.2m x 0.7m in size. Prices for ad space here for the entire season start at £900 plus annum. This can be spread out over four quarterly payments if necessary.

Matchday Programme Sponsorship from £150

Season Card Sponsorship

Have a colour advertisement in every copy of our home, matchday programmes throughout the season. Our matchday programmes are A5 sized and purchased by hundreds of fans each week. From as little as £150 per season, we can offer quarter, half, three-quarter and full page ad spaces. Or go to town and create a double page spread!

The Eagles Season cards are the easiest way for our fans to guarantee entry to every home league fixture. Your branding will be printed on the front or rear of every single season card, purchased and used by hundreds of fans every week.

from £225-475

Man of the Match Sponsor £75

Eagles TV YouTube Channel Sponsorship from £850-3,000

For just £75 you will receive two complimentary general admission tickets to a match where you will choose the man of the match and award the player with their MOM prize. A photo with the presentation will also be published to our social media accounts. Your company will also receive a half page advertisement in the match day programme for that fixture.

Our brand-new YouTube channel, Eagles TV, publishes match highlights and interviews shared across our social media channels each week to an audience upwards of 16,000 followers. There are a number of ways you can advertise your brand, from lower third graphics on screen during the highlights, half-time/full-time video adverts or by sponsoring the entire YouTube channel.

All sponsors are included on our club website and included on the media backdrop to be seen in all post-match interviews.

www.bigcatcoma.com

PUBS FOR THE COMMUNITIES Founded in 2017, Big Cat Coma continue the tradition of drinking and eating establishments to bring together the community and connect people across generations.

With our hand-crafted list of delicious beverages and homemade food, as well as our casual and friendly atmospheric venues, we are a refreshingly unique family ran business and we’ve proved time and time again that we are the greatest small pub company in the Midlands.

Come on by, grab a delicious drink, a bite to eat and get the quality time with your friends and family that you deserve!

COPlE, BEdFORd

NEwPORT PagNEll

BEdFORd BEdFORd TOwN CENTRE TOwN CENTRE

32

MATCHDAY HOSPITALITY

MATCHDAY HOSPITALITY

Whether you fancy something a lit tle different or you’ve experienced pre-match in the David Taylor Suite before, head over to the Bedford Town FC Box Office to book!

If you’re up for something a little bit more special, matchday hospitality is the best way to enjoy your day out at The Eyrie.

Hospitality is available for everyone to enjoy, for all Saturday home matches (and some bank holidays).

All guests will receive early access to the stadium, a complimentary matchday programme, team sheets and a two-course meal in our new state of the art, David Taylor Suite. The suite is equipped with its own bar, comfortable seating, live sports on the TV and every guest hosted by our incredible hospitality team with entertainment and a chance to meet the management team too!

Before kick-off all hospitality guests are given VIP access to the directors seating area, right on the half way line, so you won’t miss any of the action!

Hospitality serves as a great opportunity to mix with club staff, directors and network with other businesses.

book now

Hospitality tickets are available to buy exclusively online and only remain on sale up to three days before each match, so make sure you book in early to avoid disappointment!

33

Eyrie Events

event & function room hire

Do it the right way

At The Eyrie, we have various event hire solutions for all your needs. Our fullylicensed, 200-capacity Maxey Suite is available for parties, wakes, weddings, exhibitions and more! Furthermore, we have partnered with Bedfordshire-based Concept Events to provide bespoke events equipment from DJ hire, disco and lighting sets, all the way to marquee hire and other aesthetics.

If you’re looking for somewhere to celebrate with a bang. Or hold specialist exhibitions or events, we’ve got you covered from just £20 per hour hire rate.

We also offer discounted rates for charities and can deliver party packages so you don’t have to!

Siobhan

“We have had two children’s parties in the family at this venue in the last few weeks and they are amazing. The staff cannot do enough for you. Great space for our bouncy castle and soft play, and also held 150 people. Highly recommended for all functions” Mariska

“Absolutely fantastic staff and facilities. Excellent facilities and professional staff. Great experience for both players and their families” Maria

“Great venue to hire for parties with a bar too!”

Don’t take our word for it, here’s what some of our clients had to say on Google

GOMEZGAS GOMEZHEATING

KEEPING YOU COMFORTABLE YEAR ROUND

INSTALLATION, MAINTENANCE & REPAIRS BOILER INSTALLATION AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMPS BOILER MAINTENANCE GROUND SOURCE HEAT PUMPS UNDERFLOOR HEATING

Independent Pre-Prep of the Year 2021

AIR CONDITIONING

info@gomezheating.co.uk

Gomez Heating Engineers believe in installing the best heating solutions for your home providing comfort year round whilst saving you money on your heating bills.

We can provide advice and suggestions on the most energy efficient heating available and supply and install leading brands for maximum reliability.

CALL US FOR A FREE QUOTE

07824 508 719 01234 417 312

www.gomezheating.co.uk

meet the volunteers

35

MEET THE VOLUNTEERS

At Bedford Town Football club, we are honoured to be supported by fans who are able to take their passion for the club to the next step.

Ian Chandler – Volunteer Kit Manager

“Without volunteers, non-league football doesn’t exist” The one phrase that is universally agreed.

I am a volunteer at Bedford Town. My job description - Anything, everything and a lot more besides. The benefits - Friendships, inclusion, job satisfaction, a lot of laughs! If you are thinking about volunteering, don’t think. Just do it. I guarantee you won’t regret it.”

to be continued

aragon

CLARKE PLASTERING Plastering, Plasterboarding, Artexing & Coving 20 years’ experience | Clean & Reliable

01234 962 368 07886 080 298 rob.06@icloud.com

AL P

LAND AND PLANNING LTD

Town Planning & Design Specialists Aragon are specialists in obtaining difficult planning permissions for unusual sites in unconventional situations.

We also have the expertise to identify the development potential of land for our clients and advise them on the most appropriate method of promoting their sites.

t: 01234 360655 e: francis@aragonland.co.uk w: aragonland.co.uk The Old Coalhouse 28a Rosamond Road Bedford MK40 3SS

continued

37

MEET THE VOLUNTEERS

Sport brings a group of the population together James Smiles – Football & Fixtures Secretary

“I started watching the Eagles in 1994, when as a fiveyear-old my family took me down to festive & Easter games to get out the house. I have many memories of my childhood, growing up watching my hometown side rocket through the lower levels of non-league, as the town restored a football side it could be proud of. Having been involved with the supporter’s club since 2004, in 2012 I was asked to cover the former club secretary while he was on sick leave. I agreed to do the role for a month to see the club through a difficult situation, and here we are a decade later with me still in the same role. I spend a minimum of two hours a day working for the club, sometimes longer depending on commitments. My role involves liaising with players, opposition clubs, officials and the league, to ensure that we are compliant with regulations and also provide the best possible service to our supporters, customers and users. 100% of my role is voluntary, and a lot of people question why I do the amount I do for our club. The reason for this is my love

to provide something back to the local community which we can all be proud of. Sport brings a group of the population together once or twice a week, in a common activity and has this power to unite people together with the same aim. In non-league football this collection of people is small, and like a family. However, in the last few years I have seen this Eagles family grow and the reason I do what I do, is my confidence that this family will continue to grow in size as the Eagles continue to rise through the leagues and grow in the community.

Over the years I have worked with a number of different players, officials and volunteers. I look forward to seeing this number of people grow, as interest in the club does over the coming years. Having achieved step three football this season, the club has a bright future. On a personal note, I’ve worked hard over the last decade to achieve step three football. My reward for this hard work is seeing the new members of our Eagles family who will join us on our journey through step three. I look forward to seeing you all for a pint in the Eagles bar, en route!”

PostureFit

PAIN AND POSTURE CLINIC

Pain and Injury Specialist Are you ready to take ownership of your body?

SPECIALISTS IN SECURITY AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

01525 260 001 admin@sfm-uk.com www.sfm-uk.com

> Canine Dogs & Handlers > Key Holding & Alarm Response > Close Protection & Residential Security Team > Manned Guarding > Concierge > Mobile Patrols > CCTV & Alarms > 24 Hour Control Room > Facility Management

• Sporting Injuries • Feet, ankles, knees, hips, spine, shoulders and neck • Sports perfomance • Gait analysis • Posture correction

Bedford’s only Gait Analysis Lab

0800 069 9500 hello@posturefit.co.uk

www.posturefit.co.uk

www.ludisgroup.co.uk

continued

39

MEET THE VOLUNTEERS

Now Carol and I look after the hospitality suite in memory of former director David Taylor Mike & Carol John – Hospitality Volunteers

“Our time with Bedford Town goes back to The Old Eyrie Stadium helping with machinery for the pitch and ground. Then joining up at Allen Park on matchdays, assisting with pre-match preparations such as roping off the pitch, selling matchday programmes and anything to help raise money to help club. Then fighting the council for a ground for several years with David Donnelly and finally we flew into the old tree plantation council area, now known as The New Eyrie.

During that opening season in the 90s, the club had the best group of volunteers which enabled us to get the ground open in a very short time.

Now Carol and I look after the hospitality suite in memory of former director David Taylor, plus any midweek meetings should this be required. Now to the local community and supporters old and new… the close season is the time when your help is most valued, helping operations and maintenance, etc. THIS IS YOUR CLUB and now playing at step three where we belong!”

CHARITY WORK & COMMUNITY OUTREACH Shazam Mahmood, Assistant Head Teacher – Marston Vale Middle School

Our new community outreach programme sees the Eagles joining forces with local organisations, raising awareness for important aspects of the community and giving back to the borough. We have built strong links with schools and charities in and around Bedfordshire, which has made visits to the Eyrie a great day out for all the family. Our community partners are extremely important to not only the staff at Bedford Town, but the players too.

“At Marston Vale Middle School we wanted to reach out to local organisations and start developing our community links.

From the first contact with Bedford Town Football Club, we found a partnership with a Community Football Club who were passionately committed to working with young people in the locality, giving up their time and offering opportunities for our pupils to get involved with the football club. From whole school assemblies to our pupils representing the club as mascots during games.

Every single member of the club community, from the director, to the players and manager to the fans have all made our pupils welcome and a real part of the Eagles family. We are extremely proud to be a part of this wonderful partnership that has inspired and empowered our pupils.”

The Engagement and Development team for Children’s Services, Bedford Borough Council

“Bedford Town Football Club and those who work or play there are committed to the community in and around Bedford. Working with the club is always a pleasure, and they have helped to bring so much joy to the children, young people and families of the town and beyond. Bedford Town FC are so important in bringing people together, raising awareness of local causes and companies, and providing excellent facilities and support.”

Sarah Cunningham, Community Fundraiser – The East Anglian Air Ambulance

“‘Bedford Town Football Club kindly chose to support the East Anglian Air Ambulance during their 21/22 Season. This partnership has been just incredible. Their many fundraising events over the season has gone on to raise over £6,100. Their continuous support and commitment has helped us to be there for our patients in their darkest hour and give the very best chance of survival. 2021 was an incredibly eventful year for EAAA where – with the support of people like you – we were able to push our service forward and make sure that we are continually providing the very best care, whenever we are needed - 24/7, 365 days a year. In June 2021 we were very proud to start flying 24/7 for the first time and will continue to provide a 24/7 service, by air and by road. On behalf of everyone at East Anglian Air Ambulance we would like to thank Bedford Town Football Club, Dan, James, and all the incredible supporters for keeping us flying.”

Paul Riches Skips – Shirt & Pitchside sponsor

“We would encourage local business to support Bedford Town Football Club. The Eyre has Fantastic Facilities great atmosphere for all the Family, great facilities for both corporate events and Special Occasions. Good luck to the Team.”

41

CHARITY & COMMUNITY OUTREACH

Would your football club benefit from 5000 brochures designed, printed & distributed completely FREE of charge?

For more info, call us on 01273 512706 visit www.ludisgroup.co.uk

MASCOT EXPERIENCE DAYS

43

mascot expererience days

Sometimes watching from the stands just isn’t enough!

Each week, we have hundreds of junior Eagles fans attend matches at The Eyrie.

Their passion and excitement is inspiring and gives the team that push they need to succeed. From as little as £40, you can bring your little loved ones behind the scenes to meet the team, interact with the players, receive a matchday programme signed by the squad, warm up with the team and walk out with them before kick-off.

In addition, you’ll see their face light up when they interact with our club mascot, Eyrie the Eagle!

Our mascot staff are experienced in youth football from grassroots level, all the way through to the football league. They all hold DBS certification and are fully compliant with safeguarding and emergency first aid to ensure that your little ones’ day at The Eyrie is fun and safe.

Whether it’s for a special birthday treat or just an excuse to get involved with the action, get in touch with us at commercial@bedfordeagles.net to find out more!

BEDFORD TOWN FC Youth Development Bedford Town FC Youth Development (BTFC YD) has been a long-established club within the local community. The youth section of the club was first established back in 1989 and then re-established themselves in 2017 under the current club’s name. We are associated to the Beds FA and we hold the FA Charted Standard Club accreditation.

BTFC YD has a strong and growing youth set up with over 26 youth teams ranging from u7s to u23s for the 2022/23 season, offering opportunities for the local youth players to come and enjoy their football in an environment that is built on fun and a no-fear football philosophy designed to bring out the best in our youngsters. Improved individual and collective performance are at the heart of everything we do.

Yes, we want to win but not at all costs.

We want and aim to develop our players to win in style and take the ups and downs of sport in their stride and recognise it as a valuable learning experience as well as a fun thing to do. We have

44

btfc YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

two fantastic facilities, Kingsfield and Fiona Way to play out of and call our home.

The youth players are coached by FA qualified coaches from Level 1 up to UEFA B, all of whom hold experience and knowledge from playing careers themselves in local and regional football. All coaches are fully compliant and have DBS checks along with Emergency First Aid and Safeguarding to ensure a safe but fun environment to be in to develop and enjoy the game.

As with all grassroots football our coaches are volunteers who put everything into their role to make a change and ensure a positive impact on the youth players and local community.

BTFC YD is the place where all young players should aspire to join and be part of which offers fantastic opportunities to play at the highest levels of youth football and offers a pathway to senior football.

For more information on youth development get in touch with Dom Esposito btfcyd@gmail.com

46

HOW TO FIND & CONTACT us

The Eyrie Stadium Meadow Lane | Cardington Bedfordshire | MK44 3LW

Jon Taylor

(01234) 831558 | 831165 WWW.BEDFORDEAGLES.NET

Ralph Allen

Social media bedfordtown BedfordTown bedfordtownfc youtube.com/EaglesTVBTFC bedford-town-football-club

Director director@bedfordeagles.net Chairman ralph.allen@bedfordeagles.net

Dan Coulthard

Commercial Manager commercial@bedfordeagles.net

James Smiles

Football Secretary james.smiles@bedfordeagles.net

contact

JOHN COOK GOLDSMITHS

Q U ALI TY R E PAI R S | B E SP OKE J E W E L L E RY | R E MO U N T S & R E -MO D E L L IN G STO N E S SU P P L I E D & SE T | VA L U AT IO N S | P E A R L R E -S T R IN G IN G

WWW.JO H NC O O KGO LDS MITHS.CO. U K

01234 340394 INFO@JOHNCOOKGOLDSMITHS.CO.UK TUESDAY - FRIDAY 9-5 | SATURDAY 9-12 2 GROVE PLACE | BEDFORD | MK40 3JJ

PROUD SPONSORS OF

BEDFORD TOWN FOOTBALL CLUB

Skip the Rest! Try the Best!

Paul Riches Skips is a family run business with over 35 years’ experience

SPECIALISING IN SKIP HIRE, WASTE TRANSFER AND RECYCLING > 2 – 20 YARD SKIPS > RO/RO BINS > GRAB Servicing Bedford and surrounding areas Recycling up to 90% of waste, reducing waste to landfill > Fully trained operatives > Professional and polite staff > Same day service

Call us for a free quote

01234 843 326

or email info@paul-riches-skips.com Unit 1 Kempston Court, Manor Road, Kempston Hardwick, Bedford, MK43 9PQ

www.paul-riches-skips.com

PA U L R I C H E S S K I P S Waste carriers Licence: CBDU84506

Licenced waste transfer Station: EA/WML/75120