Mossley's Seel Park has a new name

Mossley FC's stadium has a new name - Emmaus Mossley Seel Park.

Around 18 months ago the Lilywhites launched ‘The 40’ – an exciting opportunity for local businesses, groups or individuals to mark the 40th anniversary of the club's appearance in the FA Trophy Final at Wembley and to support the club in its mission to compete at the highest sustainable level, represent all that is good about Mossley and be a positive force in the town.

Despite interruptions to the previous two seasons, Lilywhites chiefs embarked on a ‘whole club’ strategy, which included:

offering safe, fun, affordable football

a clear pathway from junior football to the first team with emphasis on development

greater community outreach work

upgrading the facilities at Seel Park

embracing Women’s, Girls’ and Disability football

creating a sustainable, competitive team on the pitch who take pride in wearing our shirt.

The flagship benefit of The 40 was entry into a raffle to win naming rights for Seel Park and the East and West stands for one season.

Following the team's final pre-season friendly, the draw was made in the social club by Chairman Steve Porter and Manager David Fish who picked out ball number 15, with club director Matthew Hayton the proud winner.

Despite the self-indulgent temptation to name the ground after himself, Matthew has chosen to gift the Seel Park naming rights to Emmaus Mossley.

Names for the East and West stands will be announced at a later date.

On choosing Emmaus, Director Hayton said: “I’m really proud and pleased that Emmaus have accepted the offer to be included in our ground name.

"They’re a focal point of the town and an inspiration.

"Our values are aligned, with community at the heart of what we do.

"Companions at Emmaus have donated time to us as a club for which we’re extremely grateful.

“I’d encourage anyone who hasn’t paid them a visit to do so.

"A warm welcome is guaranteed and you can experience first-hand the difference they make including working with Mossley SOUP who in turn support other local groups.

“Our Board of Directors and Committee are determined to be proactively involved in town life, positively engage with local businesses and groups and promote all that is good about Mossley.

"I hope that through the new name, we’ll be able to draw attention to the fantastic work Emmaus do in helping people and groups who are less fortunate.”

Andrew Kilburn, Chair of Emmaus Mossley, said: “Emmaus Mossley is delighted to be associated with Mossley AFC and the naming of the stadium.

"It is a very generous offer and greatly appreciated.

“Both organisations are committed to Mossley and its future development.

"We have worked closely together in recent years on a number of initiatives and believe we can achieve more in the future by ever closer co-operation.

"We look forward to a successful season for the club and for the town.”

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