FC Lakeside, a prominent grassroots football club in Cheltenham, is poised to celebrate its remarkable 50th anniversary with an expansive community festival, marking half a century of dedication to local sports and youth development.

Scheduled for August 30 at their new Cold Pool Lane grounds, this grand family festival promises an entire day of entertainment, beginning at midday and extending until 11 PM. Attendees can anticipate a vibrant atmosphere filled with diverse activities.

The football anniversary celebration will feature live music performances throughout the day, ensuring a lively soundtrack for the festivities. Children are specially catered for with exciting inflatables and dedicated kids’ entertainment zones, creating a truly family-friendly environment.

Complementing the entertainment, numerous food stalls will offer a variety of culinary delights, alongside a fully licensed bar for adult attendees. Critically, all proceeds generated from this landmark event will be reinvested directly into the FC Lakeside club, supporting its ongoing operations and future initiatives.

The club’s inspiring journey began in 1975 when a group of fathers from Up Hatherley established it to provide football training for their enthusiastic sons. What started as informal sessions quickly blossomed, attracting more youngsters and necessitating improved training facilities. This community club ethos was present from its very inception.

The growing demand led the club to secure larger playing areas, initially utilizing Lakeside Junior School’s playing field on Hatherley Road. Over five decades, FC Lakeside has expanded significantly beyond its initial Hatherley roots, now serving young players across all of Cheltenham football.

Today, the club operates from five diverse venues, including The Pavilion, St Marks School, Lakeside School, Dowty Sports and Social Club, and the upcoming Cold Pool Lane Facility, demonstrating its wide reach and commitment to providing accessible grassroots sports.

According to sponsorship officer Adam Bignall, the festival is a testament to the collective efforts of club members and supporters, celebrating 50 years of this vital community club. He emphasized FC Lakeside’s welcoming philosophy, stating that players of all ages and skill levels are embraced and made to feel part of the club family.