A monthly social event for Oxford United fans aged 50 and over will make a return next month – and a bumper programme of special guest speakers is being planned.
Oxford United in the Community’s Manor Club for the Over 50s will host its first event for the 2022-23 season from midday on Wednesday, September 7, at Cowley Workers Social Club.
Launched by the football club’s official charity in 2017, The Manor Club provides an outlet for older residents and U’s fans in the Eastern Arch of the city to meet and socialise.
This season’s Manor Club will take place on the first Wednesday of the month from midday in October, November, December, February, March and April with a May date to be confirmed.
Chris Lowes, Head of Oxford United in the Community, hopes to welcome more new faces to the club as it prepares for its first restriction free season of delivery in three years.
“The benefits of being part of the Manor Club go beyond simply meeting United legends from the past and present,” said Chris. “The Manor Club allows those in attendance to make new connections with likeminded individuals and share memories of seasons of yesteryear.
“Events are always well supported and we’re very fortunate to have welcomed the likes of club legend James Constable, voice of Oxford United Nick Harris and Wembley hero Alfie Potter to recent sessions.
“It’s a true social event which underlines everything we are trying to achieve at Oxford United in the Community by providing people with a positive connection to the football club and inspiring happier, healthy, lives.”
The Manor Club and its digital alternative ‘The Manor Club Extra’ was of particular importance through the COVID-19 pandemic and its subsequent restrictions by connecting individuals at risk of social isolation and loneliness.
The club’s 2022-23 launch comes after figures revealed one in 10 people aged over 65 in Oxfordshire live alone.
Chris added: “The Manor Club’s core aim is to tackle isolation and loneliness in Oxfordshire communities.
“It’s a weekday social hub for our club’s older supporters and we’re pleased to be preparing for another season of positive engagement and fun.”
To reserve your space at any Manor Club event this season, visit www.oufctickets.co.uk or call 01865 337533.
Oxford United in the Community is the official charity of Oxford United FC. It helps inspire people living in Oxfordshire to live happier and healthier lives in better connected communities through football-based programmes and activities.
Further information about the charity is available by clicking here.