In the news: Basildon has football fever ahead of FA Cup matches this Saturday

Last month the borough came together to celebrate England facing off against Spain in the final of UEFA Euro 2024 - businesses opened their doors to football fans and communities shared their score predictions ahead of the match.

This weekend we celebrate the borough's teams as they play in the FA Cup first round qualifiers.

This summer of sporting excellence inspires us to get active, and there are so many low and no-cost activities across the borough for people of all ages and abilities.  

The Summer of Sport concludes with the annual Find Your Active festival on 21 September 2024, offering local people an opportunity to take part in free taster sessions of new sports and activities supported by community groups and teams based in the borough. This year's theme is 'Celebrating Diversity and Empowering Wellbeing' as Basildon itself marks its 75th anniversary.

Councillor Jack Ferguson, Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport & Community said: "The road to Wembley has started and I can't wait to cheer on both Billericay Town FC and Bowers & Pitsea FC in their game tomorrow. Sport is such a fantastic way for bringing people together - whether that's taking part or just watching from the side lines.

"I also want to wish Basildon United FC luck in their game against Biggleswade FC at The Hive tomorrow. It's fantastic to see our borough being represented in the FA Cup. It's a wonderful opportunity to show everyone what a great place Basildon Borough is for sport."

Dean Wooten, Club Media Manager for Bowers & Pitsea FC said: "Bowers & Pitsea FC are very excited to be taking part in a historic FA Cup First Qualifying Round fixture against Billericay Town FC. Our two clubs have enjoyed great battles over the years, but this is the first time our two clubs have met in this prestigious competition. This is a fantastic opportunity to raise awareness of the game within the borough, and hopefully we can inspire the next generation of young footballers." 

Andrew Buxton, Press Officer for Basildon United FC said: "It's been a brilliant start for Basildon United FC. Tomorrow's FA Cup First Round game against Biggleswade FC is massive for the club as we look to progress to the 2nd Qualifying round for the first time in five years. If you have never been to The Hive before, why not pop over to catch the game."

Billericay Town FC men's First team Manager, Gary McCann, answers a few questions in a  short video (opens new window).

The Billericay Town FC against Bowers & Pitsea FC match will take start at 3pm on Saturday at Billericay Town Football Club. The Basildon United FC match against Biggleswade FC will start at 3pm at The Hive.

Find out more about the Summer of Sport - Summer of Sport - Basildon

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Published 30 August 2024