A social event for Oxford United’s senior supporters designed to create friendships and reduce feelings of loneliness registered a record attendance for a second month in a row.
Over 120 people packed into Cowley Workers Social Club on Wednesday to watch Des Buckingham make his Manor Club debut only hours after his side secured a 2-2 draw against Luton Town in the Championship.
United’s Head Coach reflected on the first-team’s achievements since he took charge in November, discussed that trip to Wembley Stadium and memories of the social club where he worked as a glass collector and behind the bar for a decade.
The event broke new ground for the Manor Club, which is organised by Oxford United in the Community and supports the charity’s work inspiring happier, healthier and better-connected communities across the county by harnessing the power of football.
Des expressed his thanks to those who turned out and encouraged those yet to experience the Manor Club to get involved.
“It’s so important opportunities are there for people, whether they live on their own or with a partner, to get outside their homes and be social,” said Des. “The Manor Club is a great excuse for our supporters to enjoy a fun afternoon out and meet likeminded people who share an enthusiasm for the football club.
“Rosie (Peter Rhoades-Brown) is a great host, and I enjoyed sharing memories from yesteryear and more recently while taking a few questions from the floor.
“I have many special memories of Cowley Workers Social Club, mostly tied to my family and my late nan who worked here as a stewardess for over 20 years.
“It was great to add to those memories in the company of so many enthusiastic supporters while raising funds for Oxford United in the Community who deliver great work locally.”
Established in 2017, the Manor Club meets on the first Wednesday of each month during the football season with all supporters aged 50 or older invited to enjoy an afternoon in the company of a U’s legend.
Milk Cup winning captain Malcolm Shotton was the Manor Club’s first guest this season, with James Constable booked to appear in the hotseat on Wednesday, November 6.
Club legend and event host Peter Rhoades-Brown said the Manor Club is going from strength-to-strength.
“The Manor Club is reaching its full potential this season,” said Rosie. “Star guests coupled with a feel-good atmosphere at the club and the creation of new friendships mean people are more inclined to come out which is great to see.
“Our thanks go to Des for being so generous with his time and contributing to our most successful Manor Club on record.”
Tickets for James Constable’s Manor Club visit on Wednesday, November 6, are priced £7 and can be purchased online, in person or over the phone until midday on Monday, November 4.
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 projects and programmes.