Chard Town FC celebrates 100 years at Zembard Lane with historic home match

-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)
-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)


Tuesday marked 100 years since Chard Town FC played their first game at Zembard Lane. The team, which was formed in 1921, initially played at Bonfire Close before moving to Zembard Lane, where they have remained ever since. The original ground included a grandstand and perimeter fencing, although the players changed at the nearby George Hotel (now The Phoenix).

In 1948, a refreshments hut was added, followed by a changing hut two years later. Floodlights were installed in 1953 but were blown down in a storm in 1961. The grandstand was replaced by a clubhouse in 1974 to meet Western League entry requirements, which the club achieved in 1976. The current floodlight system was installed in 1985.

SPT Chard 031009 James7 03/10/09 Words by Richard Pic 7- Chard Towns Football pitch in Zembard Lane. Picture by James Dadzitis
SPT Chard 031009 James7 03/10/09 Words by Richard Pic 7- Chard Towns Football pitch in Zembard Lane. Picture by James Dadzitis

Chard Town spent many successful years in the Western League, but in 2019, concerns about the slope of Zembard Lane led to the team’s relegation to the Somerset League. Chard Town will mark the centenary of their home ground with a Somerset League fixture against Worle this Saturday.

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