Hartpury University and Hartpury College welcomed the RAF Veterans Football Association for a special fixture against Royal Wootton Bassett veterans on Saturday 24 October, bringing together former service personnel for a match with a poignant connection to remembrance.
Played on Hartpury's 3G football pitch, the fixture was the return meeting between the two teams, who also play an annual memorial match at Royal Wootton Bassett each spring to remember former service personnel.
Royal Wootton Bassett holds particular significance for the Armed Forces community. Located near the former RAF Lyneham airbase, the town became known for the public tributes paid to British service personnel killed in Afghanistan as their bodies were repatriated through the base.
With Remembrance Day approaching, the fixture provided an opportunity to highlight the enduring connections between former service personnel and the importance of remembering those who have lost their lives in service.
Following the match, Martin Piddington, representing the RAF Veterans Football Association, expressed his appreciation for the welcome and facilities provided by Hartpury.
Martin said: "From arrival to departure we were looked after and the facilities were first class and commented upon by both teams. A special mention must go to Cameron who was on reception and looked after us extremely well and professionally; a true credit to Hartpury.”
The support included preparing changing rooms and helping the teams access equipment and facilities when needed, including assistance following an injury.
The positive experience has also opened discussions about the possibility of the RAF Veterans Football Association returning to Hartpury for future fixtures.
Hartpury was pleased to provide the facilities for an occasion that brought together sport, camaraderie and remembrance, while supporting the wider Armed Forces community.
