Upham Football Club, just outside Winchester, is a winning team in more ways than one. They have so far started the season with four wins, in their respective league and cup competitions, with scores of 7-0, 5-1, 9-1 and 2-1.
However, thanks to a deal with their sponsor, Ludus Fitness & Gym, a successful business in nearby Bishop’s Waltham, the team’s efforts have stretched beyond the pitch and to looking after the glorious countryside around their beautiful hill-top ground in the South Downs National Park.
Andy Conroy, founder and CEO of Ludus, said: “I am delighted to sponsor Upham FC this year and, as part of the deal, I asked the club to do something for their local community. At Ludus, we believe in helping others and feeling pride not only in ourselves but also where we live. We settled on litter-picking. When verges and footpaths are clear of litter, we all feel better. And when we feel better, we perform better – at work and play. Of course, we shouldn’t have to go litter-picking, but – if we do – it’s great exercise, too!”
Last Saturday morning, before their latest victory, eight of Upham FC’s team donned hi-vis vests and walked with litter-pickers and bags over two miles of country lanes around Upham. Together they filled eight bags of rubbish, which have now been collected by idverde, Winchester City Council’s street scene contractor, as part of the flexible litter-picking service it offers local people with the Litter Partnership in Winchester.
Ryan Cunningham, club secretary of Upham FC, said: “I am extremely grateful to Ludus for their generous sponsorship for our football club – and love how it’s linked to us giving something back to our community. We are delighted to be off to a winning start on the pitch, and to be doing something for the people that let us play in the heart of their village. I hope we can continue our winnings ways and have a season that makes everyone proud.”
Tom Bristowe of the Litter Partnership in Winchester, which brings together local people, councils, schools and businesses to tackle the scourge of litter, said: “I think that what everyone at Ludus and Upham FC are doing is fantastic. They have developed an inspirational partnership, which I hope others across Winchester, and beyond, might want to replicate. I wish them every success and am extremely grateful for what they are doing to help make Winchester a special place to live.”
