McGrogan snatches late win for Development

RWBTFC — Tuesday 25 August 2026

Joe McGrogan scored an 89th minute winner as Royal Wootton Bassett Town Development made it consecutive Wiltshire League Premier Division wins with a 2-1 triumph against Park United.

Bassett, who dominated the opening period, led through Toby Parker's stunning free kick only for Kieran Kennedy to equalise five minutes before half time with a relatively soft goal.

The game seemed destined for a draw until McGrogan got free of his marker and steered in from a corner to net the winner for Bassett.

2026-27 South West Regional Women’s Football League Premier Division

RWBTFC — Tuesday 25 August 2026

The 2026-27 South West Regional Women's Football League Premier Division season is soon set to start with Royal Wootton Bassett Town hosting AEK Boco in their opening game on Sunday 6 September! Scroll through the gallery for details on who Bassett will be playing (and when), as well as an overview of Bassett's historic record as league members. Do come along and support the team as they embark on life back at tier five! Admission for home fixtures is just £4 for adults, £2 for concessions and free for RWBTFC youth members. Games are played on Sundays at the Swindon Mercedes Stadium (Gerard Buxton Sports) with kick off at 2pm. Note all fixtures are subject to change. Keep up to date on the dedicated team page on our website here.

Women’s leadership team announced

RWBTFC — Monday 24 August 2026

Royal Wootton Bassett Town Women's First Team manager James Lally has appointed a five-strong leadership team as his side finalise their preparations for the start of the South West Regional Women's Football League Premier Division campaign. The quintet of players who have been appointed emphasises the important role that Bassett's experienced players will have in bringing along a young squad. The leadership group will be comprise three captains, with the captaincy shared between club stalwart Laura Jefferies, veteran centre half Alice Bowden - who previously skippered Swindon Town in the FA Women's National League - and midfielder Elle Scott - who joined Bassett last season and played a crucial role in the team's Division One North title-winning campaign. Joining them in a leadership capacity will be Hannah Gulliver - a long-serving forward who knows the club inside out, and vastly experienced midfielder Tori Taylor who was another crucial signing last year. Commenting on the appointments, manager Lally said: "Although they all go about things in their own way, something that connects all five of these players is their work ethic. They are all experienced, they lead by example, and they aren't afraid to be vocal both on and off the pitch. It gives us a really solid core to build around this season "Jeffers is a true club player. She's been with Bassett her entire playing time and knows the club inside and out. She was ever-present at the back for us last season, works exceptionally hard, and puts in some great deliveries. Laura became more vocal within the group as the season went on, but her leadership really shines in those one-to-one moments with players, a quiet word here and there and an arm around the shoulder when needed." "I've known Bowds for several years, and she has actually captained a previous team for me where we had some highs and lows together, but those experiences are why I trust her. She brings solid National League experience to the group. She is someone that is highly reflective and her own biggest critic, which sets a great standard, and I can always rely on her to speak her mind honestly to both me and the players." "Scotty is stepping up as a new captain this year. She was a standout performer for us last season and was already displaying clear leadership qualities without the formal title. She is a real motivating factor within the team and a true winner. There were several games and moments last season where she drove the team forward with her performances in midfield and, particularly in the first half of the season, scored and assisted to bring us control in games and settle us down." "Hannah is another long-term Bassett player who really understands and loves the club. While she isn't a captain this year, she plays a big role in the leadership group and is a really hardworking player that can always be relied upon and who others look up to. Not only is she a role model within our group, but she'll be continuing with her coaching role in the club's youth section." "Tori has then been an important player for me in several teams and will have a slightly different role this season. We've given her an explicit focus on supporting the younger players who are coming into the team and stepping up to senior women's football. She has vast experience in the women's game, and she is someone I trust to voice her opinion to me while keeping the players accountable. She popped up with some crucial goals last season, but I felt she really stood out in the tough, nervy moments at the end of last season with her calmness on the pitch and in the dressing room."

Weekend preview: Men’s First Team set for busy Bank Holiday

RWBTFC — Tuesday 25 August 2026

Royal Wootton Bassett Town have two more chances to break their Hellenic League Premier Division duck before the end of August with Jonny Aitkenhead's side set for a busy Bank Holiday weekend. The action begins when Bassett entertain Thornbury Town at the Swindon Mercedes Stadium (Gerard Buxton Sports Ground) on Saturday (3pm kick off). While losing 5-0 to Westfields on Saturday, that league defeat was Thornbury's first of the season having previously recorded impressive wins against Highworth Town and Corsham Town. Bassett will therefore be looking to avoid becoming a third Wiltshire scalp of the young campaign for their opponents. Bassett have historically had the better of Thornbury, winning five and drawing one of their first six league meetings. But the last two seasons have seen the teams split their league encounters with Thornbury earning their first two victories against Bassett. Admission on Saturday is £8 for adults, £5 for concessions and free for RWBTFC youth members. Then on Monday Bassett go again with a Wiltshire derby visit to Devizes Town (3pm kick off). Last season's Western League Division One champions have made a strong start to life back at step five, including an upset FA Cup win against Melksham Town last week. Bassett and Devizes haven't met since a 2010-11 FA Vase encounter at Nursteed Road that Bassett won 4-0. And Monday's meeting is their first league encounter since the teams were rivals in the 1966-67 Wiltshire League Premier Division.

Weekend Highlights - 22-23 August

RWBTFC — Sunday 23 August 2026

Watch here highlights of this weekend's goals from games involving Royal Wootton Bassett Town's senior sides. Saturday saw Louis Spalding's early goal - and an excellent display from young goalkeeper Josh Sawyer - earn Bassett's Men's First Team a 1-1 Hellenic League Premier Division draw away at Cinderford Town. A report from the game can be read here. George Staten, Karol Czekanski and Toby Parker - the latter with an impressive free kick - were on target for the Development team as they won their first Wiltshire League Premier Division game of the season in emphatic fashion against Hungerford Town Development. Then on Sunday Megan Young was the star of the show as the Women's First Team beat Woodley United 5-1 in their final friendly. Hannah Gulliver also scored while an own goal completed the scoring. All the goals can be viewed in the video on this page.

Ten man Bassett battle for draw

RWBTFC — Saturday 22 August 2026

A battling display from Royal Wootton Bassett Town earned a hard fought 1-1 draw away at Cinderford Town as Jonny Aitkenhead's side saw out the final half hour despite having ten men.

For the third time this season a Bassett player saw red - this time Kian McNally was sent for an early shower, receiving a second yellow card on the hour mark after having only been introduced as a substitute with ten minutes to go in the opening period.

However, his teammates rallied, in particular young 'keeper and Bassett player of the match Josh Sawyer, and saw the remainder of the game out to claim a much needed point.

The trip to the Forest of Dean was not exactly what Bassett, in need of a positive result, may have wanted after their start to the season. Indeed, Cinderford went into the match on the back of three straight wins, including away victories at Droitwich Spa and Hallen, and will have been eyeing up a fourth.

But a spirited Bassett performance frustrated the hosts in that quest.

The visitors made a fantastic start, taking the lead through Louis Spalding with seven minutes on the clock - a goal that brought Bassett's run of four straight games without finding the net to an end.

Ed Taylor received the ball in space on the right edge of the box and sought to shoot. Snatching at his effort, it turned into a pass across the face of goal and picked out an unmarked Spalding, who quickly took a touch before firing past Jude Franks.

Bassett almost doubled their lead midway through the half when Finn Hopkins slipped in Freddie Wyatt, whose low, tight angle effort was well kept out by Franks on the dive.

A nasty clash of heads between Wyatt and Sam Sullivan then led to a lengthy stoppage in play that saw the Bassett frontman forced to withdraw.

When play resumed, Bassett had Sawyer to thank for preserving their lead. He made two assured saves in a matter of moments, first denying Harry Leeson with his feet after he had been slipped in by Jack Watts' clever reverse pass. Cinderford were then able to recycle the ball and Watts this time found himself goalside but Sawyer was quick off his line to parry away.

Shortly after Bassett, who had only three subs, were forced into another change when Harry Messenger picked up a knock and was replaced by McNally.

Cinderford continued to hold the slight upper hand and Sawyer twice denied Tom Chamberlain before the break, saving low from a shot on the angle just inside the area before getting a firm glove to a long range strike.

In between those efforts Hopkins had dragged across the face of goal at the other end. Then with half time looming Harrison Edwards lifted a ball over the top for Ed Taylor to run onto, though, not helped by an awkward bounce, he failed to trouble the target with just Franks to beat.

Bassett would head into the break ahead, but their lead didn't last long after the restart.

Watts had came close early on when he beat the offside trap only to see Jack Coward clear off the line and Sawyer tip away his second attempt.

At the other end Nat Bell hooked narrowly wide after a neat move down the left side.

Twelve minutes into the second half McNally was penalised for a rather soft looking foul in Tom Chamberlain in the box and Jack Watts put the resulting penalty into the bottom right corner, sending Sawyer the wrong way.

Back level, Cinderford were then seemingly gifted momentum in the game when McNally, still frustrated by the penalty decision that went against him, picked up his second yellow for a tug on Watts, making his cameo a short lived one.

There were a couple of later scares, including Watts shooting wide of the left post and Sawyer dealing well with an awkward Kian Davies strike. But Bassett ultimately closed ranks and adroitly managed the final half hour to ensure a share of the spoils.

A first win of the season still eludes Bassett. But this was a step in the right direction, with two opportunities to grab that first set of three points to come over the bank holiday weekend.

Midweek preview: Development entertain Park

RWBTFC — Sunday 23 August 2026

Midweek preview: Development entertain Park Royal Wootton Bassett Town Development look to build on Saturday's big victory when they host Park United in Wiltshire League Premier Division action on Tuesday night (Swindon Mercedes Stadium, Gerard Buxton Sports Ground, 7pm kick off. Bassett finally got the reward their early season performances deserved against Hungerford Town Development. Tuesday's clash represents a big challenge though with Park having got off to a solid start with eight points from five games. Victory will see Bassett pull level on points with their opponents who they did the double over last year. Admission is £4 for adults, £2 for concessions and free for RWBTFC youth members.

Women’s football at RWBTFC: A potted history

RWBTFC — Wednesday 19 August 2026

With the start of the 2026-27 South West Regional Women's Football League Premier Division another week closer, check out a potted history of our highly successful Royal Wootton Bassett Town Women's First Team! Scroll through the images in the gallery for the full story. Featuring a lot of club legends past and present, including Laura Jefferies, Hannah Gulliver, Maddy Elliott, Sam Wood, Amber Egerton, Hayley Huckin and more… Here's to the team writing more history in 2026-27… Make sure to join us for the journey. Admission to home fixtures is great value at just £4 for adults and £2 for concessions. And RWBTFC youth and girls' section members go free! Full details of our Women's team's history are available in the archive on our website: https://rwbtfc.co.uk/history/archive/.

Fairford snatch late derby winner

RWBTFC — Tuesday 18 August 2026

Royal Wootton Bassett Town suffered last minute derby agony as Reuben Githua snatched victory for Fairford Town with a late, late winner.

A scrappy game that was rather low on quality and action - certainly not helped by the drought-induced bone dry, bouncy pitch - it appeared as though the teams would have to settle for a goalless draw.

However, with stoppage time looming Githua pounced, producing a well taken finish from an angle after Bassett failed to clear properly from a long throw.

Despite two solid defensive displays in their last two outings, the result means Bassett are still in search of an opening win of the season with a trip to Cinderford Town to come on Saturday.

Weekend preview: Home double as Men visit Foresters

RWBTFC — Tuesday 18 August 2026

While it's a busy weekend at the Gerard Buxton Sports Ground, Royal Wootton Bassett Town Men's First Team will be hitting the road as they visit Cinderford Town in Hellenic League Premier Division action on Saturday (3pm kick off). Bassett visited the Causeway Ground twice last season, coming up empty handed on both occasions after a penalties defeat in the FA Vase and 2-0 league loss. But it has been a relatively happy hunting ground in recent years, with Bassett triumphing 1-0 in their 2023-24 league visit while also winning on penalties in the 2020-21 Emirates FA Cup. Jonny Aitkenhead's side did also defeat the Foresters 2-1 at home last season - an outcome they will be seeking to replicate when they visit the Forest of Dean. Home action then sees the Women's First Team host fellow tier five side Woodley United in their final friendly ahead of the start of the South West Regional Women's Football League Premier Division season. Kick off on Sunday is 2pm on the Gerard Buxton Sports Ground AGP. Prior to that the first part of the home doubleheader pits the Development team against their newly promoted Hungerford Town equivalents in the Wiltshire League Premier Division. Kick off on Saturday is 3pm at the Swindon Mercedes Stadium (Gerard Buxton Sports Ground). Admission is £4 for adults, £2 for concessions and free for RWBTFC youth members.

Out of luck Bassett slip out of Vase

RWBTFC — Saturday 15 August 2026

Despite laying claim to having been the better side on the day, Royal Wootton Bassett Town fell to a 1-0 Isuzu FA Vase first qualifying round defeat away at Brislington.

The tie was decided in the Western League Premier Division side's favour when, with ten minutes to go and against the run of play, Brislington's recent signing Oaklan Buck produced the game's decisive moment as he flicked in a header from a deep free kick.

Bassett had produced a strong enough display that on another afternoon may have earned them a second qualifying round date with Sharpness and a chance to celebrate advancing in a national cup competition for a tenth consecutive season.

In particular, Bassett impressed defensively with Player of the Match Louis Spalding, midweek signings Harry Messenger and Ciaran Walsh and Josh Blyth protecting Josh Sawyer's goal from danger.

At the other end of the pitch though, Bassett were again frustrated as Brislington - who, like their visitors, went into the match looking to kick start their season - managed to preserve a clean sheet.

Adding to Bassett's frustration, the visitors saw Rudi Hopkins see red in the final minute of the allotted 90.

Bassett's search for the spark that will ignite their season - and the rub of the Green - therefore goes on.

For a squad containing the amount of talent that Jonny Aitkenhead has assembled, that is surely going to be soon. Here's hoping Tuesday's derby visit to Fairford Town delivers just that.

Men’s First Team sponsors

RWBTFC — Friday 14 August 2026

Royal Wootton Bassett Town are delighted to announce its 2026-27 Men's First Team sponsors. Having sponsored the team's Player of the Match award last season, The Penny Group Harridge have generously extended their support, becoming main sponsors of the team's home shirts. Based in Hungerford, The Penny Group Harridge is is a well-established financial planning business that combines personal, family-led values with the strength and governance of being part of a larger firm. They work with their clients to provide exceptional financial planning (covering wealth management, mortgages, wills and powers of attorney and retirement) catered specifically to their needs. In particular the club are grateful to Assistant Director Taylor Aitken - a former pupil at Royal Wootton Bassett Academy - who has helped to secure the sponsorship. Further information about The Penny Group Harridge can be found on their website. Joining the club as additional home shirt sponsors are Hometyre (back of shirt) and Hoth Kitchens (sleeves). Hometyre is Wiltshire's leading mobile tyre fitting service. Their fully equipped mobile tyre vans allow their technicians to complete tyre work on-site without the need to visit a garage and their service supports both private motorists and businesses. Further information about Hometyre can be found on their website. Based on Royal Wootton Bassett High Street, Hoth Kitchens is an independent kitchen design specialist, selling luxury kitchen products and service at an affordable price. They offer a full end-to-end service from design through to installation. Further information about Hoth Kitchens can be found on their website. Presley's Barbershop - a barbers based in Marlborough and owned by Men's First Team player Alfie Presley - are the team's new away shirt sponsor. The club are extremely grateful for Alfie's contributions as a sponsor, as well as his continued efforts on the pitch. Presley's Barbershop is open six days a week and offers high quality men's grooming services at affordable prices. You can book your appointment through their website here. Remaining as sponsors of the team's training and management kit are: Maundrell and Co - a Wantage-based high quality used car specialist; Swindon-based Ashbury Plumbing and Heating; and Image Property Developments. The club are grateful to manager Jonny Aitkenhead and goalkeeper coach Garry Eggleton for helping arrange sponsorship with their companies. And long-standing club partners Interprint will continue to print the team's award winning matchday programme, as well as that for the Women's First Team. - Royal Wootton Bassett Town FC would like to thank all of our other sponsors and partners for the invaluable support that they provide. Each is a critical part of the club's continuing success and ability to provide footballing opportunities within the local community. Our Sponsorship Prospectus outlines the various opportunities available. If you would like to see your business or organisation become a part of the Royal Wootton Bassett Town FC story, please contact our Commercial Manager Mike Price via email (mike.price@rwbtfc.co.uk). Outstanding opportunities available with the Men's First Team include back of shirt and sleeve sponsorship for the team's away kit.

Midweek preview: Tuesday away double - including Fairford derby

RWBTFC — Sunday 16 August 2026

The August action continues to come thick and fast for Royal Wootton Bassett Town - with the Men's First and Development teams both on the road on Tuesday night. For the Men's First Team it's a derby visit to Cinder Lane to face Fairford Town (7.45pm kick off). Fairford did the double over Bassett last season - including a 2-0 triumph in Gloucestershire. But since then it has been all change with a significant turnover in the Red Arrows' squad - many of who will be representing Bassett on Tuesday. Despite the turnover, Fairford have fared well to start the new campaign, though Bassett will be gunning for an away win to record their first three pointer of the season. Also on Tuesday the Development team hop over the Oxfordshire border to take on Faringdon Town (also 7.45pm). Bassett took four points off Faringdon last season, though the Don have made a strong start to the new campaign. Josh Connolly's young side will therefore need to be at their best for what is set to be a tough away test.

Weekend preview: Bassett seek cup tonic in Vase visit

RWBTFC — Tuesday 11 August 2026

Royal Wootton Bassett Town Men's First Team seek to kick their season into gear on Saturday when they visit Brislington in the Isuzu FA Vase first qualifying round (3pm kick off). With one draw, two defeats and a single goal to their name, it has been a somewhat frustrating start to the 2026-27 season for Bassett after a promising summer in the transfer market. And it's been a similar story for Western League Premier Division opponents Brislington, who have so far lost four from four in the league - though they did earn a first victory against Thornbury Town in the Emirates FA Cup last weekend. There will be an additional incentive for Bassett to win too as they aim to extend their streak of advancing in at least one national competition to ten ten years having last exited both national competitions at the earliest opportunity in 2016-17. The Development team are also in action on Saturday as Josh Connolly's young side host Trowbridge Town in the Wiltshire League Premier Division (Swindon Mercedes Stadium, Gerard Buxton Sports Ground, 3pm kick off). The teams split their season series in 2025-26, both recording 3-0 home victories. Trowbridge have played just once so far this campaign, drawing 2-2 at Purton Kingsdown. Admission is £4 for adults, £2 for concessions and free for RWBTFC youth members. Finally, on Sunday the Women's First Team visit Mangotsfield United for their penultimate friendly (3pm kick off). South West Regional Women's Football League Division One North rivals last season, Bassett drew away at Mangos before edging a home victory on their way to the title and promotion to the Premier Division.

Ploughmen leave Bassett in a pickle

RWBTFC — Saturday 08 August 2026

Royal Wootton Bassett Town exited the Emirates FA Cup at the extra preliminary round stage for just the second time in the last seven seasons after a 2-0 home defeat against Southern League Division One Central side Winslow United.

A pair of Scotts proved Bassett's undoing as Scott Valentine opened the scoring late in the first half before Harry Scott doubled Winslow's advantage with six minutes remaining to put the tie to bed.

Bassett gave a decent account of themselves against their step four opponents. But their early season goalshy ways continued and denied Bassett the opportunity to push for a replay, let alone earn a place in the preliminary round against league rivals Longlevens.

After a relatively tame opening, Winslow jumped into the lead ten minutes before the break as Valentine capped off a flowing move with a fine finish into the top corner beyond Josh Sawyer.

That sparked a busy end to the half with Harrison Edwards seeing a deflected shot go narrowly over for Bassett while Scott had an effort hacked off the line after he had got past Sawyer.

The early stages of the second half continued in a similar manner, with chances at both ends, though with neither side capable of finding the target. Harry Stratton and Ty Deacon both failed to test Sawyer while Joe Shutt struck just wide for Bassett.

Eventually though the tie would be settled. Substitutes Ethan Flanagan and Aaron King combined before Valentine played in Scott, whose powerful drive went in off the bar.

That served as a suckerpunch for Bassett who had Sawyer to thank for denying Valentine a third after impressive build up play from King.

Bassett now get a second shot at some cup tonic - and a first victory of the new season - next week when they visit Brislington in the Isuzu FA Vase.

Race Night and Comedy Night - Saturday 12 September

RWBTFC — Saturday 08 August 2026

In conjunction with Royal Wootton Bassett Cricket Club, Royal Wootton Bassett Town FC will be hosting a race night and comedy night on Saturday 12 September.

Both clubs are excited to join together to give you an evening of big laughs, a tasty hog roast and exciting racing! Please do join us for a fun filled night of entertainment to raise important funds for both clubs.

The event will take place in the Gerard Buxton Sports Ground clubhouse - and will feature comedy sets from Graeme Coulam and Sam Michael, two of the finest local comedians. The event starts at 6.30pm. Tickets cost £15 per person, and tables of eight can be reserved. Visit https://www.ticketsource.com/rwbcc to purchase your tickets.

We look forward to seeing you there! Please note this is a strictly adult only event - those attending must be aged 18 or over.

Midweek preview: Development welcome Shrivy

RWBTFC — Saturday 08 August 2026

Royal Wootton Bassett Town Development play local rivals Shrivenham in their opening home fixture of the Wiltshire League Premier Division on Tuesday. Kick off is 6.30pm at the Swindon Mercedes Stadium, Gerard Buxton Sports Ground. Both of last season's league meetings ended in a 1-1 draw as Shrivenham finished fourth and Bassett eighth. Shrivenham are one of the favourites for the new season and were convincing 4-0 winners away at Bradford Town Reserves on Saturday. Bassett, meanwhile, drew 1-1 away at Down Ampney, a result they will be looking to build on. Admission is £4 for adults, £2 for concessions and free for RWBTFC youth members.

Bobcats humble Bassett in home opener

RWBTFC — Wednesday 05 August 2026

Royal Wootton Bassett Town's opening fixture at the Swindon Mercedes Stadium of the 2026-27 Hellenic League Premier Division season didn't go exactly as planned.

Jonny Aitkenhead's side suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat against ruthless Wiltshire rivals Bradford Town - a result that, if anything, will hopefully serve as a wake up call for Bassett whose somewhat bullish preseason has so far failed to translate into victory in the real thing.

Two games is admittedly a small sample size, and there is still plenty of distance to travel. Now Bassett will be hoping that the FA Cup provides the tonic needed for them to get going.

On this evening, Bradford were quick out of the blocks and found themselves 2-0 up inside 20 minutes.

Mason Alden almost opened the scoring in the 13th minute when he rattled the bar. However a minute later the visitors were ahead courtesy of a Curtis Dunn pile driver.

They soon doubled their lead as Thomas Mack surged forward before crossing for Jack Newman to power a header beyond Josh Sawyer.

While Bradford - the only team to win on opening day by more than a single margin - deservedly led, Bassett were by no means out of the game. Indeed they came alive and were large on top for the remainder of the half. And the hosts almost summoned a reply through captain Alfie Presley who struck the woodwork ten minutes before the break.

That was the closest they would get with Bradford's outstanding defence withstanding any pressure that Bassett applied.

And the game was effectively killed off with seven minutes to go when Jaiden Pearce, not the tallest of players, was afforded a free header to make it 3-0.

Their fourth then came on the break in stoppage time. The visitors had eleven men behind the ball for a Jack Hobson-McVeigh free kick which was cleared. Bassett tried to recycle the ball but Bradford again said no before breaking away at pace with youngster Ashton Arlow confidently finishing.

Bassett's frustrations then boiled over after the game with Presley seeing red for comments he made.

It may not necessarily have been a 4-0 game on the balance of play. But Bradford have shown Bassett the standard. Now it's down to Jonny Aitkenhead's side to reach that level and kickstart their campaign.

Development team season preview: Young guns seek to impress

RWBTFC — Wednesday 05 August 2026

It's set to be a fresh start for Royal Wootton Bassett Town Development as the 2026-27 Wiltshire League Premier Division campaign begins with a new management team in charge and a renewed focus on bridging the gap between youth and senior football. An assistant to Mark Simpkins last year, Josh Connolly is now in the hotseat. And he will be assisted by Steve Heary and Lee Chamberlain, both of who were coaches in Bassett's youth section last year. While Connolly is stepping up into his first managerial role in senior football, Connolly has plenty to offer. An inspirational leader with a never say die attitude - as evidenced by his recent world record-setting double marathon, he also brings a great deal of knowledge of the Wiltshire League. As a player Connolly has spent a large amount of time in the division - indeed he was a member of Bassett's 2021-22 title winning side. He is also someone who always made the most of his talent on the pitch. Such attributes should serve those playing under him well - especially the young players making the step up into senior football that Bassett will rely on more. Such is the renewed focus on youth that exciting young forward Toby Parker, who is entering just his third year of senior football and won last season's Development team Supporters' Player of the Year award, has been made captain. And Connolly is excited to see the partnership he forms with Jacob Ryan. There are then a number of youth section graduates - among them Aiden Cumberbatch, Karol Czekanski, Alex and Ed Greenouff, Dexter Lyall and Rhys Poulton - who will be pushing for extended playing time. Experience is there in the squad too, coming in the form of the likes of the Spackman brothers, Ben and Max, Mani Mesas and George Staten. And they will be relied upon to help further bring Bassett's young charges along. Together they will be playing week in, week out in what is a very strong division with multiple teams either looking to return to step six (the likes of Shrivenham, Pewsey Vale, Trowbridge Town and reigning champions Shrewton United) or to get there for the first time (including Development sides of Larkhall Athletic, ad newcomers Hungerford Town, as well as Melksham Town Reserves and Faringdon Town). Promotion is out of the question for Bassett (unless the Men's First Team are to progress to step four). But Bassett will be looking to continue to be competitive in the division. The primary aim is, as ever for the Development team, to develop as many players as possible to progress into the Men's First Team. At the same time, there is the desire to try and create something special in the league. Bassett will therefore be seeking to improve on last season's creditable eighth place finish and edge into the top six They have shown well in preseason, winning three, drawing one and losing just once in five games. Now Bassett's exciting young team will be looking to carry that form over into the real thing.

Please do show your support to the team! Admission for home league fixtures is just £4 for adults, £2 for concessions and free for RWBTFC youth members.

Weekend preview: Home double as Men seek FA Cup upset

RWBTFC — Tuesday 04 August 2026

Royal Wootton Bassett Town host the first home doubleheader at the Swindon Mercedes Stadium of the 2026-27 season this weekend - with the highlight set to be Saturday's Emirates FA Cup extra preliminary round tie. And Bassett will be seeking to cause an upset when they host step four Winslow United, who make the journey to Wiltshire from Buckinghamshire for Saturday's tie (3pm kick off). Playing their first competitive game of the season, Winslow enter the contest on a high having secured promotion to the Southern League after finishing second in the Spartan South Midlands League Premier Division (missing out on the title only on goal difference) before triumphing in the playoffs. But Bassett will be seeking to put the Ploughmen in a pickle and earn an upset victory that would set up an all-Hellenic League Premier Division preliminary round tie against either Longlevens or Malmesbury Victoria. Having progressed beyond the extra preliminary round in six of the last eight years, Bassett will also be looking to extend their recent run of success in the FA Cup. And despite their league record, Winslow have struggled on the national stage, advancing in the FA Cup just once in five participations. It should be a cracking tie - so do come along. An all pay fixture, admission is £8 for adults and £5 for concessions. In the second part of the doubleheader, Sunday sees the Women's First Team continue their series of friendlies with a home fixture against fellow tier five side Southampton Women (2pm kick off). The match will be the side's first on the Swindon Mercedes Stadium pitch this season with manager James Lally coming up against his former club. It's also a big weekend for the Development team who kick off their Wiltshire League Premier Division campaign away against Down Ampney on Saturday (3pm kick off). Bassett secured a season double over Down Ampney last year that included a 4-1 away victory. And Josh Connolly's young team will be hoping to extend that winning streak to kick off the new season in style.

South West Regional League Premier Division fixtures released

RWBTFC — Monday 03 August 2026

Fixtures for the 2026-27 South West Regional Women's Football Premier Division season have now been released.

As they return to tier five for the first time since 2023, Royal Wootton Bassett Town will start their campaign with a trio of fixtures against relatively familiar foes.

And September will also see Bassett play at home at least twice - a big benefit for James Lally's promoted side - with the possibility of a third game depending on the outcome of the draw for the Adobe Women's FA Cup second qualifying round.

First up for Bassett is a home fixture against AEK Boco at the Swindon Mercedes Stadium on Sunday 6 September. A tough opening fixture, Boco finished fifth last season. The teams last met in the league when in tier six in 2018-19 with Bassett winning both fixtures. Bassett and Boco both have plenty of history though having been long time rivals while in the Gloucestershire County Women's League. Bassett will then journey to Poole Town on Sunday 13th September. The Dolphins pipped Bassett to the Division One Eastern title in 2023-24 - but it was Bassett who won when the teams met in Dorset, triumphing 2-1.

Like all their league rivals, Bassett will join the Women's FA Cup at the second qualifying round stage on Sunday 20 September. The first month of the campaign will then end with a home contest against Sherborne Town on Sunday 27 September. The most challenging fixture of the opening month on paper, the Zebras have been challenging for promotion in recent years, with three consecutive third place finishes to their name. Of their four previous league meetings with Bassett, Sherborne have won three games with the other ending in a draw.

Bassett are due to travel to Yeovil Town to begin October - but both teams will be hoping that game needs rearranging with Sunday 4 October being the date of the Women's FA Cup third qualifying round.

The team's longest journey of the season to face Cornish side Saltash United is set to take place on Sunday 18 October, with the return fixture at the Swindon Mercedes Stadium scheduled for Sunday 29 December.

Geographically, Yate Town are Bassett's nearest rivals. The teams will meet for the first time in Wiltshire on Sunday 11 October before a date in Gloucestershire on 13 December. Bassett are then first due to meet B2A FC - the replacements for Forest Green Rovers after their withdrawal - in Wiltshire on Sunday 29 November. All support - home and away - is greatly appreciated. Admission for home fixtures is just £4 for adults, £2 for concessions and free for RWBTFC youth and girls section members. With fixtures on Sunday afternoons at 2pm, we encourage as many youth players who might be playing at home, as well as their families to stay around and cheer the team on! It should be noted that all fixtures are subject to change - and it will certainly not be the case that Bassett finish their season on 24 January! Supporters are therefore advised to stay up to date with fixtures on the team page on our website: https://rwbtfc.co.uk/team/145/lad/fix/.

No dream start, but team shows promise

RWBTFC — Saturday 01 August 2026

Royal Wootton Bassett Town opened their 2026-27 Hellenic League Premier Division campaign with an 1-1 draw away against Hallen.

An opening day contest pitting the sides who finished 15th and 16th last season against one another, it was clear that both teams have what it takes to compete higher up the table this time round.

Indeed it was a solid game in which there were rather limited chances with both defences on top and showing well.

Bassett had got off to an excellent start, taking the lead in the fifth minute when Will Davidson knocked a set piece delivery down to Alfie Presley, who opened his account for the season with a composed finish.

The visitors went into the break in front. However, Hallen equalised shortly after the restart as Cory Thomas Barker fired beyond Josh Sawyer with a well taken free kick.

That was to be the extent of the scoring on an afternoon that saw close encounters across the division. One of two draws, the other eight games saw just one decided by more than a single goal - with Wednesday's visitors Bradford Town beating Cinderford Town 2-0.

For their visit to Hallen Bassett were resplendent in their new purple away threads (an interesting choice of colour given the club's primary home colour is blue). Bassett thus had the look of Harchester United - the focus of cult 2000s football drama Dream Team.

Success was something Harchester achieved on a regular basis, but it was never easy to come by. And if Bassett are to do well this year, the same will no doubt be true in what has the prospects of being a wide open division.

There was plenty in their performance at Hallen to be positive about. Here's hoping Bassett can build on the result to turn in a successful campaign - and one without the off field drama that Harchester experienced.

Midweek preview: Bassett host Bradford in Wiltshire derby

RWBTFC — Saturday 01 August 2026

Royal Wootton Bassett Town play their first competitive home fixture of the 2026-27 Hellenic League Premier Division season on Wednesday when Wiltshire rivals Bradford Town visit the Swindon Mercedes Stadium (Gerard Buxton Sports Ground, 7.45pm kick off). The Bobcats are back in the Hellenic League after transferring across from the Western League Premier Division - and are one of five fellow Wiltshire opponents who Bassett will face this season. Bradford previously spent two years in the Hellenic Premier in 2021-22 and 2022-23. And Bassett's four previous league meetings with Bradford produced drama, including a double for Bassett in the latter of those two seasons. Bradford were relegated at the end of that season, but have since climbed back up to step five, finishing in mid-table in the Western League last year. They'll now be looking to push on in the Hellenic and will representing testing opponents in what promises to be an attractive early season test for Jonny Aitkenhead's side. Indeed the Bobcats enter the match top of the table having been involved in the only game on opening day to be decided by more than a single goal as they beat Cinderford Town 2-0. Admission on Wednesday is £8 for adults, £5 for concessions and free for RWBTFC youth members.

Additional coach sought for Goalkeeper Coaching sessions

RWBTFC — Saturday 01 August 2026

Royal Wootton Bassett Town are seeking an additional coach to help deliver the free goalkeeper coaching sessions the club runs for its youth section members. Part of its wider community football offer, goalkeeper coaching sessions take place on Monday evenings from 7-8pm on the Gerard Buxton Sports Ground AGP. Sessions are open to any current youth section members who play in goal, or who are interested in playing the position. To help deliver these, a further safe pair of hands is sought. No qualifications are required, but would be beneficial. Furthermore, the club would potentially be willing to provide support with goalkeeper-specific coaching qualifications. Support will be provided by Mark Cooper - who holds a UEFA B coaching license and is also an FA-qualified Goalkeeping Coach. If you are interested in the role, please contact Club Development Officer Mark Cooper (mark.cooper@rwbtfc.co.uk; 07379 906819) for further details. - Further information about how to join Royal Wootton Bassett Town Football Club and what we offer as a club is available on the 'About Us' page of our website: https://rwbtfc.co.uk/about/. For those interested in managing or coaching youth teams, the club will be able to provide support with coaching qualifications and DBS checks.

Weekend preview: Bassett visit Hallen in Hellenic opener

RWBTFC — Monday 27 July 2026

The 2026-27 Hellenic League Premier Division campaign gets underway on Saturday - and Royal Wootton Bassett Town open their season on the road away against Hallen (3pm kick off). The game pits the teams who finished last season 15th and 16th against one another - and both Hallen and Bassett will be looking to make an early mark as they seek improvement in this campaign. There's plenty of reason for both sides to be optimistic that they can achieve that. Despite their bottom half league finish, Hallen advanced to the semi finals of the FA Vase last year, demonstrating the quality in their squad. Meanwhile, Bassett have had an aggressive summer in the transfer market, strengthening and adding vital experience to their squad. Bassett will also be aiming the 6-3 defeat they suffered away at Hallen last season - and record their first victory on their travels against their opponents. There's then friendly action for the Women's First Team and Men's Development team. On Sunday the Women's First Team entertain Oxford City Development in their second fixture ahead of the start of the South West Regional Women's Football League Premier Division campaign (Gerard Buxton Sports Ground AGP, 2pm kick off). And on Saturday the Development team finish their preparations for the beginning of the Wiltshire League Premier Division season with a visit to Gloucestershire Northern Senior League side Bibury (3pm kick off).

Men’s Season Preview: Back to the Future as Bassett seek to kick on

RWBTFC — Monday 27 July 2026

For Royal Wootton Bassett Town Men's First Team it has been another summer of significant change. But, unlike last year, this one has brought a strong degree of familiarity. Entering his second year in charge, Jonny Aitkenhead has overhauled his squad. That in itself is perhaps unsurprising given last season when Bassett finished 16th with the manager using 53 different players. The eye-catching squad Aitkenhead has fashioned for his sophomore year now represents an enticing fusion of the best young talent Bassett had on display in 2025-26, matched with the experience and quality that Bassett possessed in the seasons before he took the helm. Indeed, in a reversal of what happened last summer, a quartet of quality players have come back across to Bassett having spent 2025-26 with Fairford Town - forward (and new captain) Alfie Presley, midfield maestros Tommy Ouldridge and Jack Hobson-McVeigh, and dynamic full back Louis Spalding. Further quality has then also been added in the form of midfielders Joah Hall and Harrison Edwards (both also arriving from Cinder Lane), lively forward Kye Williams (who rejoins from Thatcham Town), experienced defender Will Davidson (a Player of the Year award winner with Highworth Town in 2025-26) and young shotstopper Josh Sawyer (a Chippenham Town Academy product). Those signings mean that the departures of the highly talented Ben Cleary, Harry Messenger, Alex Kieh and Gabe Reivers - all of who the club wishes well as they ply their trade at a higher level - have all largely been accounted for. All told, the Bassett boss has built a squad with strength in depth that, on paper, offers plenty of promise and excitement. Now comes the task of translating that into results on the pitch. That in itself won't be easy - as evidenced by Bassett's up and down series of preseason friendlies. But the experience in adversity that the Bassett boss obtained in his first year in charge will stand him and his team in good stead as they enter the new campaign. Last year Bassett's season could be split into three distinct parts. Bassett got off to a very difficult start (their FA Cup success aside), before an outstanding run that saw them become the form team in the division over a prolonged period moved them away from the danger of relegation. That run was necessary because Bassett finished on a nine game winless streak. Yet what may have been a barren spell points-wise masked what, in terms of performances, was actually quite an impressive stretch as Bassett pushed a number of the top teams in the division close. What Bassett lacked was the cunning and experience that has now been added. And, with their refreshed squad, Bassett will be hoping to hit the ground running. The first month of the season certainly offers opportunities to put points on the board - assuming Bassett click and play to their potential. Aitkenhead's side open at Hallen - who finished a place above last season in 15th (though they did reach the FA Vase semi finals) - before welcoming Western League transfers Bradford Town in their home opener. There follows, after FA Cup and Vase commitments, a trip to rebuilding Fairford Town. August then ends with the visit of Thornbury Town (17th last season) and a derby date at newly promoted Devizes Town. Those five games should certainly provide a good early barometer as to how far Bassett can go this year. Competing for a place in the top half will be the primary goal. But there is no harm in having the ambition to aim higher still - while also seeking to finally end the Men's First Team's wait for a cup final appearance that is now entering its 26th year. Fire up the engines and get on board - it promises to be another exciting Hellenic League season.

Free Saturday Skills Sessions - break for summer holidays

RWBTFC — Thursday 23 July 2026

Following the session on Saturday 25 July, the Free Saturday Skills Sessions (including Wildcats Girls Football) will be taking a break for the school summer holiday period. The sessions will then resume on Saturday 12 September.

Huge thanks to all who have attended the sessions, as well as the dedicated coaching team, for ensuring the sessions continue to be a big success!

-

Our Free Saturday Skills Sessions are available to sponsor. The cornerstone of our Community Football offer for close to 14 years, the sessions run during school term time. Their continued success is demonstrated by the number of children who have attend each week, with many who have have had their first taste of football at the sessions going on to play for our youth and girls teams. Over the years the sessions have also been nominated for and won multiple awards.

This is an exciting opportunity for your organisation to become our partner, while helping us to maintain and grow our Community Football programme. If you are interested in this opportunity or would like further information please contact our Commercial Manager Mike Price (mike.price@rwbtfc.co.uk).

2026-27 Admission Prices and Season Tickets

RWBTFC — Wednesday 15 July 2026

Royal Wootton Bassett Town are pleased to announce that the cost of admission and season tickets for the club's Men's, Women's, and Development teams for the 2026-27 season have again been frozen.

Season tickets cover admission to ALL RWBTFC games held at the Gerard Buxton Sports Ground, except for those in FA and County Cup competitions, playoff fixtures (if applicable), as well as any external fixtures. Season tickets will be available to purchase at the Men's First Team friendly against Abingdon United on Saturday 25 July. Alternatively, payment can be arranged by contacting chairman Paul Gerrish (paul.gerrish@rwbtfc.co.uk; 07946 629483).

RWBTFC youth members will continue to receive free entry at games (except for those in FA and County Cup competitions, and any potential playoff fixtures).

Full details are listed below: Season Tickets
Adults: £120
Concessions (Over 65s and Under 18s): £75

Men's First Team
Adults: £8
Concessions (Over 65s and Under 18s): £5
RWBTFC Youth Members: Free

Women's First Team
Adults: £4
Concessions (Over 65s and Under 18s): £2
RWBTFC Youth Members: Free

Men's Development Team
Adults: £4
Concessions (Over 65s and Under 18s): £2
RWBTFC Youth Members: Free

Please note that prices may vary for games taking place in FA competitions. All support home and away is, as ever, greatly appreciated. So please do get behind our teams and to as many games as you can! Fixtures for each team can be found on the relevant pages of our website.

Volunteers sought for media roles

RWBTFC — Wednesday 08 July 2026

Royal Wootton Bassett Town are seeking volunteers to assist with the following media roles:

Club photographer: Photographer(s) available to cover Men's First Team, Women's First Team and/or Men's Development team home games (ideally away games too where possible), as well as other events

Men's First Team matchday updates: Individual to take responsibility for matchday updates on the club's social media channels for Men's First Team games (home and away)

Match highlights editor: Individual to take responsibility to produce weekly highlight videos - to be published on the club website and social media channels - covering the Men's First Team, Women's First Team and Men's Development team using footage from the club's Veo account

Youth section press officer: Individual to take responsibility for obtaining information for and writing a regular (ideally weekly) roind up of youth section games played in the North Wilts League from the Under 12-18 age groups. To be published on our website and social media channels alongside our existing Girls' Section Review feature.

Offering great opportunities to gain experience, it is hoped that the roles would be of interest to any youth section members hoping to pursue media / journalism careers. Anybody interested in these roles, or who would like more information, should contact club Press Officer Stuart Smedley by email (stuart.smedley@rwbtfc.co.uk).

Presley and Coward appointed Men’s First Team captains

RWBTFC — Sunday 05 July 2026

Alfie Presley and Jack Coward are to serve as Men's First Team captain and vice captain for the 2026-27 season after being appointed to the positions by manager Jonny Aitkenhead. Forward Presley returns to Bassett - a club he has always enjoyed success at - this season after spending time with Fairford Town and Corsham Town in 2025-26, while centre half and youth section graduate Coward stood out for Bassett last year after joining from Bradford Town. Commenting on the appointments, Aitkenhead said: "It's great to have players of the calibre of Alfie and Jack to lead us in the new season." "Alfie leads from the front and sets the tone among the squad with his standards on and off the pitch. He's a great character and someone who will help push us forward this season. He's well respected among the group that we have and is keen to bring success to the club." "Jack was a consistent, solid, reliable performer last year who really helped us improve defensively. On the pitch he's a great talker and drives standards. His experience last year, when we were rebuilding the squad, is also extremely important to have to understand where we have come from and keep us grounded. On top of that, Jack is a local lad who was with the club as a youth - and having him as vice captain helps show how you can progress through the club."