HISTORY

How the club was formed

Landsdowne Rangers FC was formed in January 1991 by Tony Bush and Simon Burchell, the name 'Landsdowne' originating from Lansdowne Avenue, Leigh-on-Sea which was close to where Simon lived.

Whilst Simon left the club after two seasons, Tony has continued to play for Landsdowne Rangers, most recently in 2008 setting up a Vets team alongside the Senior Team.

Click here for a picture of the original team in 1991.

First competitive match

Their first competitive match was on 13th October 1991 against Rectory FC in the
"Andy Ward Memorial Trophy". They won 3 goals to 2.

Most memorable match

It's a matter of opinion. Click here to read some of Landsdowne Ranger's past and present players talk about their most memorable match.

Achievements

In 2000/01 the club finished runners-up in Division 1 of the Sceptre League and in 2002/03 they reached the semi-finals of both the league's cup competitions.

In January 2005 Landsdowne 'Ladies' - comprising of Captain Mark Hart, Graham Rix, Gavin Mayo, Terry Bush, Dean Weaving and keeper Darren Playford - won the Masters 5-a-side vets competition at Eversley Sports Centre in Pitsea.

In 2006/07 season they completed an amazing run of 10 league wins in succession, finishing runners-up in Division 3 of the Basildon Sunday League, level on points and losing out only on goal difference to eventual winners Waymade F.C.

Charity work

In March 1999 - when 12 of the players had their hair bleached - they raised £ 1,500. They made the front page of the Basildon Echo as a result and the money was used to buy equipment for the special care baby unit in Basildon Hospital.

In February 2001 the club played a ten year anniversary game, donating gate receipts to "Basildon and Thurrock Healthy Heroes". In October 2005 they played against "Callum FC" to raise money for Basildon Hospital's Neo-Natal unit and its staff.

Click here for a copy of the front page of the Basildon Echo 29-Mar-99.

Click here for some pictures of the players with bleached hair.

Click here for a copy of the front page of the Basildon and Wickford Recorder 01-Oct-04.

Click here for an article from the Basildon and Wickford Recorder 15-Oct-04.