Lucky Mascots at Thatcham Town FC
A huge thank you to Nigel Manley and all at Thatcham Town FC who welcomed us to such a memorable day with a behind the scenes and mascot experience. It was a fantastic day for all, that saw Thatcham Town FC secure a 4-2 win against Hilltop FC in the Combined Counties Premier Division North fixture.
Known as "The Kingfishers", Thatcham Town FC has long been an important part of the town's sporting heritage, bringing local people together through football and community spirit. That welcoming ethos was on full display as Swings & Smiles families were warmly welcomed by players, club officials, volunteers and supporters, and treated to a behind-the-scenes matchday experience that celebrated inclusion, community and football.
Wearing their newly gifted Thatcham Town shirts with pride, the children enjoyed photos in the tunnel, meeting the teams, escorting the players onto the pitch and taking part in half-time fun before cheering on the players with high fives at full time.
Long time supporters of Swings & Smiles, Deputy Mayor of Thatcham, Cllr Petra Pemberton, together with Mayor of Thatcham, Cllr Mark Lillycrop, and Mayoress of Thatcham, Cllr Jenny Lillycrop, joined in the celebrations. The exciting 4-2 win for Thatcham Town FC, provided the perfect backdrop to a day packed with smiles, confidence-building and unforgettable memories.
The mascot experience forms part of a growing partnership between Swings & Smiles and Thatcham Town FC, helping to raise awareness of the charity while creating opportunities for local families to enjoy football in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Becky Smith, Children's Development Lead at Swings & Smiles and supporting the families on the day, said:
"Days like these are about so much more than football. They're about belonging, inclusion and ensuring every child and family feels welcomed and valued within their community. The warmth shown by everyone at Thatcham Town FC was incredible and made the experience truly special.
Rhonda Nicklin, Swings & Smiles’ CEO shared
“We're proud of this partnership, which helps raise awareness and support for Swings & Smiles while giving children, siblings and families the chance to enjoy football in their hometown, surrounded by people who welcome and celebrate them."
Sincere thanks to Nigel Manley, and everyone at Thatcham Town FC, whose generosity and enthusiasm helped make the day such a success.
Together, partnerships like these help build a more inclusive community where every child, young person and family can participate, connect and thrive.
Visit Thatcham Town FC's website for the full match report and their match day gallery.
