A record number of people attended Oxford United in the Community’s first Manor Club for the Over 50s of the season this month, with club legend Malcolm Shotton as guest speaker.
Celebrating its seventh year, the Manor Club is a monthly social event organised by the football club’s official charity at Cowley Workers Social Club and provides a purpose for senior supporters to connect and socialise.
Spaces for the ticketed event were sold out days in advance with over 100 guests enjoying a lunch buffet and in-depth question and answer session between Peter Rhoades-Brown and Malcolm.
The pair reflected on United’s 1986 Milk Cup triumph, Malcolm’s seven seasons as a player with the club and stints elsewhere including Barnsley, Hull and north of the border with Ayr United.
He said: “To see so many familiar faces after such a long time away from the club was a great way to spend a Wednesday afternoon.
“For older supporters, the Manor Club is a great way of connecting with likeminded people and meeting players, coaches and managers past and present in a welcoming environment.
“Lifting the Milk Cup was the highlight of my career. And although we’re going back a few years to that day, people have fantastic memories and I enjoyed hearing people’s stories from the day.
“A big thank you to Oxford United in the Community and Rosie for their hospitality.”
Since the Manor Club’s creation, data from the UK’s most recent census report confirmed almost one-quarter (23 per cent) of people aged 50-64 felt feelings of loneliness.
Oxford United in the Community plan to combat this locally by extending the Manor Club’s footprint beyond the city centre where everyone aged 50 or older is welcome.
Tickets for Oxford United in the Community’s October Manor Club on Wednesday, October 2, are priced £7 and can be purchased online, in-person at the ticket office or over the phone. Doors open at 11.30am with a guest confirmed in the coming days.
Tickets will be on sale until midday on Monday, September 30, with proceeds from the day supporting Oxford United in the Community’s work to inspire happier, healthier and better-connected communities.