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 was living at the time. However, after only two seasons Simon left the club and he was replaced by Martin Bell.

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.