In an initiative to build bonds locally, Chelsea Football Club this weekend launches of our brand-new community awareness campaign Pride in our Bridge.
First announced last season, this is a community-focused campaign, designed to strengthen the relationship between the club, fans and residents by reducing the impact of Stamford Bridge visitors on our neighbours and encouraging a sense of joint ownership between residents and supporters of the stadium and the local area.
Pride in our Bridge is about celebrating the shared history and shared identity of Stamford Bridge and our part of south-west London. We want to recognise the vital role our neighbours play in making our community so special, and for our fans to take pride in the home they share with the local community. It is about asking Chelsea supporters to look after our residents, treat them with respect, and to ensure behaviour that may negatively impact our community does not take place.
Ethan Windsor, residents relations officer at Chelsea FC, said: 'I am delighted that Chelsea Football Club has launched Pride in our Bridge after many months of hard work. It has been a privilege to work with members of our local community, both residents and supporters alike, to bring this to life. It is only fitting that this campaign has been made by residents, for residents. I would like to thank everyone involved and I can't wait to see how Pride in our Bridge progresses.'
Our community has been involved in the campaign since day one. First introduced at the club’s regular Community Liaison Meeting in May, residents and supporters alike were invited to join a focus group to steer and direct the planning of the campaign.
Residents made up the majority of the group, as well as representation from supporters’ bodies such as the Fan Advisory Board and the Chelsea Supporters’ Trust. Bringing this idea together would not have been possible without their help and support, and they have been incredible throughout.
We will be celebrating this across the local area and social media this weekend, so please get involved and take Pride in your Bridge!