Oxford United first-team head coach Des Buckingham will make his much-anticipated debut at the Manor Club for the Over 50s next week after being confirmed as guest speaker.

The 39-year-old will appear at Cowley Workers Social Club on Wednesday, October 2, from midday to reflect on his achievements in football to date, discuss ambitions for the future and remember that promotion winning day at Wembley in May.

Organised by Oxford United in the Community – the football club’s official charity – the Manor Club is open to all supporters aged 50 or older and is the club’s way of connecting senior fans who might be at risk of developing feelings of loneliness.

It celebrated its biggest turnout since the initiative was launched seven years ago earlier this month when over 100 guests enjoyed the company of Milk Cup winning captain Malcolm Shotton.

Des won’t be in unfamiliar surroundings on the day having previously worked at Cowley Workers Social Club as a bartender. And he’s looking forward to reflecting on more stories from on and off the pitch when taking to the stage in the company of event host Peter Rhoades-Brown.

“I have fond memories of the social club growing up, so it’s a fitting venue to return and reflect on my career in football to date,” said Des. “The Manor Club has clearly been a huge success, and I’m pleased to have the opportunity to speak as its next guest.

“Not only does it provide a great outlet for senior supporters to mix and socialise, but also raises important funds for Oxford United in the Community whose outstanding work I’ve had the privilege of seeing first-hand.

“Hopefully there’s a strong turnout on the day and we can enjoy each other’s company and help raise some money in the process.”

Launched in 2017, the Manor Club for the Over 50s operates on the first Wednesday of each month during the football season at Cowley Workers Social Club. Visitors enjoy a buffet lunch before a question-and-answer session with the day’s guest is chaired by Rosie.

He said: “The Manor Club is going from strength to strength with Malcolm’s return to Oxford underlining how popular our monthly meetups can be.

“We’re very grateful to Des for giving up his afternoon to speak to our visitors who I’m sure will find his Q&A insightful and engaging with a few laughs along the way. We’re expecting demand for tickets to be high, so encourage supporters to book early and avoid disappointment.”

Tickets for Des Buckingham’s first Manor Club for the Over 50s appearance on Wednesday, October 2, are priced £7 and can be purchased online, in-person or over the phone until midday on Monday, September 30.

No tickets will be available on the day, doors open at 11.30am with food provided. All proceeds from the event will support Oxford United in the Community’s work to inspire happier, healthier and better-connected communities.

Further information about the charity and its community projects and programmes is available online via www.ouitc.org.