Last Match
The Berwick Charities Cup is a competition like no other, steeped in history and played in a unique and beautiful setting. Its first inception was in 1922 as the Infirmary cup, a competition to raise funds for the local infirmary and from then ran yearly with the exception of an obvious four year hiatus between 1940 and 1945.
Shortly after in 1948 the competition had grown substantially and could support more charitable giving, this was the birth of the Berwick Charities Cup which is still to this day well supported by many local and even a few far reached teams, as well as enthusiastic local supporters. As with tradition every penny raised goes to a number of local charities.
Ran by a small group of volunteers led by local legend Les Chappell and aided by both local council and English heritage this proud competition is played every summer from May to July on a pitch like no other, built on the top of a defensive moat and surrounded on two sides by the imposing local Elizabethan fortifications standing 6 to 10 metres high makes this traditionally small and notoriously awkward pitch an absolute must for both players and supporters.
"Please Keep an eye out for our famous red collection tin as it makes its way around the Pitch on match nights. Give what you can afford every little helps!"
The Charity Cup Team
Les Chappell, chairman, played on the Stanks since the early 70s and took the running over 23 years ago when the last organiser stepped down and no one stepped up from the committee. Revived the competition twice in his tenure and now as strong as it's been for many years.
Cam Waterhouse looks after the Berwick Charities Cup social media and is also one of the tournament's volunteer referees.
Bod Rodgers, Les's assistant, joined in 2016 when the tournament needed a volunteer boost, played the competition for 25 years until the age of 50, scoring in his last game.
The Stanks in Pictures - A Uniquely Rich History
