With a new 350-seat stand installed on Ashton Playing Fields, excitement is building among Woodford Town FC fans, who are keen to watch a home game at home, says the club’s Technical Director Neil Day
Take a stroll down Chigwell Road, turning into Ashton Playing Fields, and you might be surprised by the changes taking place there.
We have been writing about Woodford Town FC’s proposed return to the local area in a series of articles during the last couple of years. Fair to say progress has been a little slow, despite the tireless efforts we have made promoting ourselves as a community club to be proud of in Woodford. But equally, you have to realise that a considerable amount of money is being spent on making this proposed project a reality and that can’t be hurried. The wheels can take time to turn if protocol is followed, and that is very much the nature of the beast.
That ‘beast’ is definitely taking shape now, with the pitch relaid, hub buildings in situ and a new 350-seater stand scheduled for installation. It’s been a marathon effort behind the scenes, but to see the recent progress means so much to those who have been involved, and we hope equally to the many locals who have shown an interest in getting involved when we are finally back home.
But what does it mean to be a Woodford fan? Lifelong Woods followers Lloyd and Phil Duddridge teamed up for a question and answer glimpse into supporting your local team. Former schoolteacher Phil fittingly asks the questions, while local activist and former councillor Lloyd answers with all the candour associated with those roles.
How would you describe the experience of following Woodford Town FC?
Loud. We try and make an atmosphere wherever we go. We try and enjoy the day out as a whole, and get behind the team whatever the score. That way, win or lose, it’s still a good laugh and good fun.
What is the standard of football?
I think the standard of football has surprised me. When I first went to a game in the Essex Senior League, I thought it would be one step up from Sunday league. It is far from that. Most teams try to play, and there is some serious young talent and a few ex-pros.
What do you think about the new ground?
Excited to finally have a home back in Woodford. It has taken a few decades, but here we are with a new ground. I hope it will be a place that gives the town pride. It will be great to see the community get behind us.
What lies ahead for Woodford Town FC?
Well, this season, it would be great to stay up. We have not had the best of starts. But in the future, a good cup run (after all, we did make the first round of the FA Cup in the 1980s!). Plus, continuing the club’s tradition and ambition of attractive attacking football.
For more information on Woodford Town FC, visit woodfordtownfc.com
