The 150th anniversary of Wokingham Town Football Club has been marked by a mention in government.
The club, which was established in 1875 and currently plays its matches jn the Combined Counties League Premier North in Emmbrook, was the subject of an early day motion tabled by Wokingham’s member of parliament, Clive Jones, earlier this week.
The motion said: “This House joins Wokingham Town Football Club in celebrating its sesquicentennial this year; recognises the importance that grass roots and non-league football clubs have in their communities across the UK; and wishes the Sumas another successful 150 years to come.”
He told Wokingham Today: “I was very happy to table early day motion 1067 to put on the record my support for this important local institution.
“Early day motions allow MPs to formally suggest motions that the House of Commons might like to debate, although it is very rare for such debates to happen when the government ultimately controls the agenda.
“In practice, MPs use early day motions to draw to the attention of other members of parliament to issues, topics or events that are important to them and their constituents.
“This significant anniversary for the Sumas deserves celebrating, and I hope that it causes MPs across the House to reflect on the value of the grassroots and non-league teams in their own local areas, which provide such joy to their own local communities.
“I will be sending a copy of the motion to the president of Wokingham Town FC in the coming days.
“Who knows – perhaps that will still be on display in the clubhouse in another 150 years time.”
Mark Ashwell, president of Wokingham Town Football Club, said: “Wokingham Town has enjoyed a long and illustrious history, and this mention in government is much appreciated, and is another landmark event that everyone associated with the club – past and present – should be extremely proud of.”
The club held a celebration event at its final home game of the season last Saturday, and is planning another event in early August.
