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.

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/.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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!

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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."

FA competition draws announced

RWBTFC — Friday 03 July 2026

Draws for the early rounds of the 2026-27 Emirates FA Cup and Isuzu FA Vase have now been released. And for Royal Wootton Bassett Town tough opponents who Bassett have never faced before await at the first hurdle of both competitions. Previews of who Bassett are set to face in these two prestigious national competitions are detailed below. Emirates FA Cup Bassett have enjoyed significant FA Cup success in the past eight seasons, exiting just twice in the extra preliminary round (2019-20 and 2023-24), while advancing to at least the first qualifying round on three occasions. Last season was a particular success with convincing home wins against Lydney Town (in a replay) and Amersham Town seeing Jonny Aitkenhead's young side impressively advance to the first qualifying round. A record equalling run was then within reach too as Bassett led Torpoint Athletic only to see their Cornish visitors turn the tie around to win 3-1. To get that far again this year, Bassett will first have to overcome step four opponents in the form of Winslow United before beating Hellenic League Premier Division rivals in the form of either Malmesbury Victoria or Longlevens. A breakdown of Bassett's opponents is here. Extra preliminary round vs Winslow United (Home) - Saturday 8 August Who are they? Southern League Division One Central (step four) newcomers who will travel from Buckinghamshire for their first ever meeting with Bassett. How did they do last season? Promoted to step four as Spartan South Midlands League Premier Division playoff winners in only their second season at step five. Cup pedigree: In five previous FA Cup participations, Winslow have advanced beyond the extra preliminary round just once, reaching the preliminary round in 2020-21. Three previous ties against Hellenic League opponents all ended in defeat. Winslow did reach the FA Vase second round last year. Preliminary round vs Malmesbury Victoria or Longlevens (Home) - Saturday 22 August Who are they? Bassett's Hellenic League Premier Division rivals - with Malmesbury also representing Wiltshire rivals. How did they do last season? Malmesburh were promoted as Hellenic League Division One playoff winners while Longlevens finished 11th in the Premier Division. Cup pedigree: Longlevens reached the second qualifying round in 2021-22, having reached the first qualifying round two seasons earlier. They beat Winslow in the extra preliminary round two seasons ago, though exited at the first hurdle last season. Bassett met Levens in the FA Vase second round in 2023-24 with Bassett winning 2-1. Malmesbury are entering the FA Cup for just the third time - and are yet to record a win in the competition. Emirates FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round: Royal Wootton Bassett Town v Winslow United (Saturday 8 August)
Emirates FA Cup Preliminary Round: Royal Wootton Bassett Town or Winslow United v Malmesbury Victoria or Longlevens (Saturday 22 August)

Isuzu FA Vase Bassett were in unfamiliar territory in last season's FA Vase as they returned to the qualifying rounds for the first time since 2021-22. And Bassett's time in the competition didn't last long as they suffered an agonising penalties defeat away at league rivals Cinderford Town following a thrilling 3-3 draw. That means another season having to negotiate the lottery of the Vase's early rounds. The draw for the early rounds see Bassett at the first qualifying round stage, with an away tie against Brislington. The reward for the winners is a home clash with step six Sharpness. A breakdown of Bassett's opponents is here. First qualifying round vs Brislington (Away) - Saturday 15 August Who are they? Bristol-based Western League Premier Division outfit who the Men's First Team have never met before (though Bassett's Under 18s did previously face Brislington in the 2004-05 FA Youth Cup). How did they do last season? Brislington finished second from bottom in the Western League Premier Division and fell at the first hurdle in both the FA Cup and Vase. Cup pedigree: Brislington reached the fourth round of the Vase in 2004-05 and made the fourth - and final - qualifying round of the FA Cup in 2014-15. 2014-15 was also the last time though that they have advanced beyond the qualifying rounds of the Vase, with a second qualifying round defeat against Bassett's Hellenic rivals Thornbury Town last season. Second qualifying round vs Sharpness (Home) - Saturday 12 September Who are they? Gloucestershire side, who Bassett have never faced in competitive action, returning to the Hellenic League and FA Vase for the first time in 36 years (since 1989-90). How did they do last season? Sharpness finished as champions of the Gloucestershire County League, seven points clear of Filton Athletic, to earn promotion to step six. Cup pedigree: Sharpness enjoyed significant Vase success in the 1980s. They reached the fifth round in 1984-85. A year later - when Sharpness also won the Hellenic League Premier Division - they advanced to the fourth round of the Vase where they lost to Stevenage Borough (now in the EFL). Isuzu FA Vase First Qualifying Round: Brislington v Royal Wootton Bassett Town (Saturday 15 August)
Isuzu FA Vase Second Qualifying Round: Brislington or Royal Wootton Bassett Town v Sharpness (Saturday 12 September)
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Historical details of Royal Wootton Bassett Town's participation in all national cup competitions in which it has competed are available in the history section of our website.

For each competition, details of all results are listed, as well as - where information is available - line-ups and match reports.

See the following pages for details:

FA Cup
Women's FA Cup
FA Vase
FA Youth Cup
FA Amateur Cup

Hellenic League Premier Division fixtures released

RWBTFC — Wednesday 01 July 2026

Fixtures for the 2026-27 Hellenic League Premier Division season have been released. Entering their 14th consecutive campaign in the division, and 20th overall, Royal Wootton Bassett Town will face a bumper 40 matches. And Jonny Aitkenhead's side will see their campaign begin with an away trip on Saturday 1 August to Hallen. Bassett host Wiltshire rivals Bradford Town in their home opener on Wednesday 5 August. Following FA Cup and FA Vase fixtures, August then sees two further derbies away at Fairford Town (Tuesday 18 August) and Devizes Town (Monday 31 August, bank holiday), with a home clash against Thornbury Town in between (Saturday 29 August). What else to look forward to Derby dates and bank holiday fixtures Bassett are set to face seven derbies this season after the promotions of Devizes and Malmesbury Victoria and Bradford's lateral transfer. They join fellow Wiltshire rivals Highworth Town and Corsham Town as well as cross-border rivals Cirencester Town and Fairford Town. Bassett will host Cirencester (Saturday 15) and Corsham (Saturday 26) in September before welcoming Malmesbury (Wednesday 14 October) and visiting Highworth (Tuesday 20 October) the following month. November sees one derby - a home clash with Fairford (Saturday 14 November). Then in December Bassett welcome Devizes (Saturday 19) before visiting Corsham a week later on Boxing Day. Bassett are due to visit Bradford at the end of February (27 February). Three derbies are then set for spring - away at Malmesbury (Saturday 13 March), at home against Highworth (Easter Monday 29 March) and a final day trip to Cirencester (Saturday 17 April). New opponents Bassett will face Worcestershire side Stourport Swifts for the first time ever in 2026-27. The teams will square off twice late in the season. Bassett are due to visit Stourport on Saturday 20 February before welcoming them to the Gerard Buxton Sports Ground on Saturday 3 April. - Full fixtures are available to view here: https://rwbtfc.co.uk/team/145/ft/fix/. Please note all fixtures are subject to change, in particular those scheduled in August and September with the early rounds of the Emirates FA Cup and Isuzu FA Vase. Admission prices for league games this season have been frozen. These will remain £8 for adults, £5 for concessions and free for RWBTFC Youth members. Having recorded an average home league attendance of 141 last season, we look forward to seeing your excellent support again this season - and to continue to push our attendances upwards.

Online registration for 2026-27 season open

RWBTFC — Tuesday 30 June 2026

Royal Wootton Bassett Town's online registration system, used to register youth and girls' section members with the club, is now open for the 2026-27 season. The form is quick and easy to complete, and can be accessed at the following link: https://rwbtfc.co.uk/player/reg/new/. It is necessary for a registration form to be completed for all players, even if they have registered for the club in previous seasons. Only one player at a time can be registered using the form. If you are registering more than one child from your family, you will therefore be required to complete a separate form for each child. At the end of the form, you will be asked to insert a code. This can be obtained from your child's team manager. Once a form has been submitted, all data will be stored securely in the rwbtfc.co.uk database with access to the information strictly limited. Forms will be approved, first, by the relevant team manager and, second, by either club Secretary Ian Thomas, Head of Youth Section Simon Jones or Head of Girls Section Sam Wood who will then enter details into the FA's Whole Game System, enabling league registration. If, for any reason, additional information is required or a change needed to the form, you will be contacted about this. If you have any questions about registering for the youth section please contact either Secretary Ian Thomas (ian.thomas@rwbtfc.co.uk), Head of Youth Section Simon Jones (simon.jones@rwbtfc.co.uk) or Head of Girls Section Sam Wood (sam.wood@rwbtfc.co.uk.

Additional information regarding consent to join RWBTFC mailing list

As part of the form, parents and guardians are asked whether they wish to be contacted by RWBTFC by email. This is in order to keep up to date with the latest news and information about the club during the season, included in newsletters that are sent around once a week during the season. While the club strongly recommends that members agree to join the mailing list as it is an important means of disseminating news about the club, it is not mandatory to subscribe. All individuals in receipt of the newsletter are able to unsubscribe from receiving future emails at any point they wish. For those who have previously unsubscribed from the mailing list, but now wish to receive email newsletters, as well as selecting 'Yes' on the registration form, please also resubscribe to the newsletter by entering your details here. For those who have previously signed up to the mailing list, but no longer wish to receive email newsletters, as well as selecting 'No' on the registration form, please do also click 'Unsubscribe' at the bottom of one of the newsletters you have recently received. Those who have previously subscribed and wish to continue receiving the newsletter do not need to take any additional action.

Volunteer Days - 11 and 18 July - your support required!

RWBTFC — Monday 29 June 2026

Royal Wootton Bassett Town will be holding volunteer days on Saturday 11 and 18 July in order to prepare the Gerard Buxton Sports Ground facility for the start of the new season.

On both dates, activities will begin at 9am and finish at around 12.30

To ensure all activities are completed in good time, additional support is requested. It would be great to see support from across all sections of the club - Men's, Women's, Youth, Girls' and Veterans! Those available to help are invited to contact Chairman Paul Gerrish ( paul.gerrish@rwbtfc.co.uk; 07946 629483). Refreshments, including tea, coffee and bacon rolls will be provided to all helpers. Tasks required include, but are not limited to: Equipment shed: Tidy, sort and organise Tea hut: Deep clean, sort and clean canopy Turnstiles: Wash, clean, lubricate hinges and latches, and paint metallic table top Stands: Sweep and wash both stands, paint seated stand Hard standing and pathway: Edge pathway (two sides) Advertising boards: Wash and clean Youth section container: Tidy and sort

Please do come along and show your support! The more hands available, the quicker it will be to complete all activities. We look forward to seeing as many people there as possible!

Long-serving Women’s trio set to depart

RWBTFC — Sunday 28 June 2026

Amber Egerton, Emma Sykes and Lucy Goodright - a trio of long-serving players - are set to depart Royal Wootton Bassett Town Women's First Team ahead of the start of the new season. All three midfielders have given a significant amount to Bassett, helping contribute to the success of the Women's First Team in recent years. Egerton and Sykes have both served Bassett for more than a decade and are members of a select group of players to have made more than 100 appearances in the period in which Bassett have played in the South West Regional Women's Football League. Egerton initially joined in 2014-15 when Bassett were in Division One of the Gloucestershire County Women's League. During her time with the club she enjoyed a distinguished career, earning six Player of the Year awards, including Players' and Manager's Player of the Year doubles in 2015-16 and 2016-17. Since Bassett have played in the South West Regional League, Egerton has played 136 times, scoring 15 goals. Sykes first featured for Bassett in 2016-17 as part of a highly succsssful Under 16 Girls team before stepping up to the senior Women's side a year later, earning Players' Player of the Year in her debut season. Overall Sykes has made 128 senior appearances, netting 15 times. Both players helped the team win multiple pieces of silverware, including a league and County Cup double in 2017-18 as well as last season's 2025-26 Division One North title victory, and also featured in multiple cup finals. Goodright, meanwhile, has been with Bassett during the past three seasons. After a break from playing, She returned to football with Bassett in 2023-24 and during her time with the club featured 31 times, scoring ten goals, with five appearances in last year's title winning campaign. Commenting on the departures, Women's First Team manager James Lally said: "Making decisions on the squad is the worst part of football, and saying goodbye to players who have conducted themselves so well is never easy. But, football is always evolving, and as we push forward and prepare for the new season, it's inevitable that squads will change." "Every player moving on has contributed to our journey, and they leave with our genuine gratitude and we wish them absolutely nothing but the best as they find new challenges." "Amber is the personification of a team player. It is no surprise she has collected multiple Players' Player and Manager's Player awards over her decade-plus at the club. During her time with Bassett she has always given absolutely everything to the shirt, and that commitment has remained unwavering during my time here." "Emma is another long-serving player having played almost 130 games. Possessing a real talent for finding the through ball that breaks defensive lines, her vision on the pitch has been a tremendous asset. Emma also consistently went above and beyond off the pitch, generously using her expertise as a sports therapist to advise and support the squad. There is no doubt she will make a significant impact wherever she goes next. "Lucy is a technically gifted player who reads the game exceptionally well. Armed with a great first touch, excellent game intelligence, and an impressive range of passing, she has a natural ability to dictate play. She has the quality to be a key figure in whatever midfield she steps into next." "We wish all three the best for the future."

Notice of Annual General Meeting - 16 July 2026

RWBTFC — Friday 12 June 2026

Royal Wootton Bassett Town Football Club's Annual General Meeting will be held on Thursday 16 July at the Gerard Buxton Sports Ground. The meeting will begin at 7.30pm.

The meeting is open to all to attend, and attendance is actively encouraged as it is a chance to shape the future direction of the club.

At the meeting, reports on the 2025-26 season from club officers will be presented, while the Executive Committee for the 2026-27 season will be elected and goals for the forthcoming campaign set.

There are currently three vacancies on the Executive Committee for which volunteers are sought. These are:

Youth Section Secretary
Club Development Officer
Welfare Officer (not voteable)

Anyone wishing to stand for election for these positions must, as per the club's Constitution, be nominated by both a Proposer and Seconder no later than 21 days before the AGM (25 June 2026).

Nominations must be made to club Secretary Ian Thomas by email.

All other members currently in Executive Committee positions are willing to stand again if elected.

The full agenda and nominations for officers is listed below.

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RWBTFC AGM Agenda

1. Apologies for absence
2. One minute silence
3. Committee who's who
4. Sports Association
5. Minutes of previous Annual General Meeting
6. Presentation of Balance Sheets
7. Presentation of Reports
8. Amendments to Club Rules / Constitution
9. Election of Officers, Management Committee and Auditors
10. Club Status and Objectives for Season 2026-27
11. Any other business for which prior written notification has been received by the Club Secretary no later than 21 days before the AGM or as may be allowed by the Chairperson

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Nominations for Officers

Chairperson: Paul Gerrish
 Vice Chairperson: Pete Yeardley
 Treasurer: Craig Moreton
 Secretary: Ian Thomas
Youth Section Secretary: Vacant - nominations sought
Head of Men's Senior Section: Rab MacLeod
 Head of Youth Section: Simon Jones
 Head of Women's and Girls' Section: Bryan Wood
 Head of Veterans' Section: Martin Ohrland
 Club Development Officer: Vacant - nominations sought
Commercial Manager: Mike Price
 General Committee: Mark Cooper
 Welfare Officers (not voteable): Vacant (volunteer sought) and Ian Thomas
 Respect Officer (not voteable): Amanda Rouse

Youth Section Presenation winners

RWBTFC — Friday 12 June 2026

End of season presentations were held at the Gerard Buxton Sports Ground for Royal Wootton Bassett Town's youth teams on Saturday.

Celebrating the conclusion of the 2025-26 season, at each age group awards were presented for the Manager's and Players' Player of the Year as well as the Most Improved Player / Clubperson of the Year. At the Under 7 through Under 11 age groups, all players registered with the club also received a memento.

Congratulations to all those who won awards at each age group! Huge thanks go to Head of Youth Section Simon Jones for organising another successful day, Jason Large and Gareth Watkinson for manning the barbecue and Jane Spencer for taking photos!

Under 7 Blue

Manager's Player of the Year: Harry Mallows
Players' Player of the Year: David Jacob
Most Improved Player of the Year: Rocco Harrison

Under 7 Yellow

Manager's Player of the Year: Seth Clark
Players' Player of the Year: Loche Milan-Brown
Supporters' Player of the Year: Lucian Willian
Most Improved Player of the Year: Abel Calton

Under 8 Blue

Manager's Player of the Year: Matthew Bulman
Players' Player of the Year: Matthew Bulman
Most Improved Player of the Year: Edward Hockin

Under 8 Yellow

Manager's Player of the Year: Freddie Simpson
Players' Player of the Year: Finley Kelly and Jackson Burchell
Most Improved Player of the Year: Carter Aitkenhead

Under 9 Blue

Manager's Player of the Year: Roman Charlton
Players' Player of the Year: Kayden Davis
Most Improved Player of the Year: Henry Foss

Under 9 Yellow

Manager's Player of the Year: Reggie Pike
Players' Player of the Year: Elliott Zych and Jack Gantlett
Most Improved Player of the Year: Henry Adams

Under 10 Blue

Manager's Player of the Year: Freddie Clarke
Players' Player of the Year: Max Harrison
Supporters' Player of the Year: Reuben Conway
Most Improved Player of the Year: Ned Harvey

Under 10 Yellow

Manager's Player of the Year: Jacob Bowen
Players' Player of the Year: Loche Wheeler
Most Improved Player of the Year: Max Barnes and Roman Dunn

Under 11 Blue

Manager's Player of the Year: Ethan Ward
Players' Player of the Year: Tommy Bodle
Supporters' Player of the Year: Dan Paines
Most Improved Player of the Year: Louis Dix

Under 11 Yellow

Manager's Player of the Year: Oliver Davis
Players' Player of the Year: Teddy Button
Most Improved Player of the Year: Solly Kent

Under 12 Blue

Manager's Player of the Year: Elliott Bray
Players' Player of the Year: Ryan Flanagan
Clubperson of the Year: Elliott Haines

Under 12 Yellow

Manager's Player of the Year: Reuben Smith
Players' Player of the Year: Danny Dhiraj
Clubperson of the Year: Luca Dobson

Under 13 Blue

Manager's Player of the Year: Cameron Greaney
Players' Player of the Year: Thomas Gregory
Clubperson of the Year: Jack Saunders
Best of Holland Award: Ellis Paviour

Under 13 Yellow

Manager's Player of the Year: Elise Dart
Players' Player of the Year: Rupert Holley
Clubperson of the Year: Peter Corlett

Under 14 Yellow

Manager's Player of the Year: Freddie Upton
Players' Player of the Year: Romy Olson-Price
Clubperson of the Year: Callum Shurey

Under 15 Blue

Manager's Player of the Year: Edward Bennett
Players' Player of the Year: Kenwyn George
Clubperson of the Year: Rory Hillier

Under 15 Yellow

Manager's Player of the Year: Carlos Green
Players' Player of the Year: Josh Bennett
Clubperson of the Year: Freddie Murdoch
Most Improved Player of the Year: Archie Lyall

Under 16 Blue

Manager's Player of the Year: Arlo Wilshire
Players' Player of the Year: Joe Waller
Sponsors' Player of the Year: Ewan McGeachie
Most Improved Player of the Year: Ollie Heathcoate
Clubperson of the Year: Corey Madziyire

Under 16 Yellow

Manager's Player of the Year: Dexter Whitehead
Players' Player of the Year: Rhys Giles
Supporters' Player of the Year: Jake Ward
Most Improved Player of the Year: Gordon Yeung
Clubperson of the Year: Ollie Filer

Under 18 Blue

Coaches' Player of the Year: Aidan Cumberbatch
Players' Player of the Year: Toby Parker
Young Player of the Year: Rhys Paulton
Clubperson of the Year: Robert Gregory

Under 18 Yellow

Manager's Player of the Year: Fynn Crone
Players' Player of the Year: Noah Saxby
Clubperson of the Year: Seb Scutt

Women’s First Team seeking additional coaches

RWBTFC — Thursday 11 June 2026

Royal Wootton Bassett Town Women's First Team are seeking a goalkeeper coach, outfield coach and analyst to join its management team for the 2026-27 season.

Those interested in any of the roles are invited to contact manager James Lally via email (james.lally@rwbtfc.co.uk) or to fill in the form here: https://forms.gle/g8QvhJpfBjk43RkV7. It is an exciting time to join the team as Bassett step up to the tier five South West Regional Women's Football League Premier Division, having finished as Division One North champions last season. As a club we are able to provide support with coaching qualifications and DBS checks, as well as access to a wide network of coaches and resources. We also offer the opportunity to join an established, experienced management team. Alongside manager James Lally, coaches Gary Clarke and Steve Kennedy will remain with the team. Unfortunately David Tomlinson will be stepping down from his role as goalkeeper coach. Huge thanks go to David for his efforts, which played a key role in Bassett's title victory.

RWBTFC receive Rotary Club Grant

RWBTFC — Wednesday 10 June 2026

Royal Wootton Bassett Town are delighted to have received a generous £100 grant from the Royal Wootton Bassett and District Rotary Club.

The grant will be used to help fund the purchase of goal nets for the club's youngest youth section teams who will be playing 3 v 3 football next season.

Huge thanks go to the Rotary Club for their generous support!

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The Royal Wootton Bassett and District Rotary Club are a friendly and inclusive group, dedicated to putting something back into our community and having fun in the process.

Their activities are varied and include youth initiatives, community activities, international projects, charitable giving and fund raising.

Social fun is a key part of what Rotarians do, and they support many local organisations and charities, as well as international projects.

For more information about Royal Wootton Bassett and District Rotary Club please see here.

Watch the FIFA World Cup at the Gerard Buxton Sports Ground!

RWBTFC — Tuesday 09 June 2026

Join us in the clubhouse - and support the Sports Association - for: England v Croatia - Wednesday 17 June - 9pm England v Ghana - Tuesday 23 June - 9pm England v Panama - Saturday 27 June - 10pm Special offer: 5 bottles of Stella Artois for £16! To book your table contact Claire Kirkup (admin@rwbsa.org.uk; 01793 853880). Come on England (and Scotland)!

Reach more people with RWBTFC!

RWBTFC — Sunday 07 June 2026

Looking for a way to promote your business across Royal Wootton Bassett and beyond? Royal Wootton Bassett Town Football Club are offering pitchside advertising opportunities for businesses wanting strong local visibility and exposure throughout the football season. Every match at the Gerard Buxton Sports Ground involving our Men's First Team, Women's First Team and Development team brings players, supporters, families and visiting clubs from across the south west through our gates - putting your business in front of a wide and engaged audience. We also play host to numerous prestigious cup finals and other fixtures during the season. Promote your business locally
Support our community football club
Gain exposure across the county and beyond
Be part of our matchday experience Whether you are an independent local business or a larger company serving the wider area, there's a place for you at RWBTFC with a range of sponsorship opportunities available. To find out more and discover the right sponsorship package for you and your business, please contact our Commercial Manager Mike Price (mike.price@rwbtfc.co.uk). Further details are available on our website. - Royal Wootton Bassett Town FC are proud to be an England Football Two Star Accredited Club, with more than thirty teams ranging from Under 7s to Over 50s. We are the only club in Wiltshire with teams playing at steps five (Hellenic League Premier Division) and seven (Wiltshire League Premier Division) of the men's National League System and tier five of the Women's Football Pyramid (South West Regional Women's Football League Premier Division).

Provisional South West Women’s Football League constitution announced

RWBTFC — Wednesday 03 June 2026

After finishing as Division One North champions, Royal Wootton Bassett Town will be returning to the tier five of the women's football pyramid for the first time since a four season spell (interrupted by Covid) that lasted from 2019-20 to 2022-23. Now Bassett have found out who they will be playing in the 2026-27 South West Regional Women's Football League Premier Division. This follows the Football Association releasing provisional allocations for all leagues at tiers one through six of the Women's Football Pyramid. Ten teams will make up the Premier Division which compromises a range of sides Bassett have previously faced and a trio of new league opponents. Bassett faced Gloucester City in 2024-25 when the Tigers finished top of Division One North, and Poole Town in 2023-24 when the Dolphins pipped Bassett to the Division One Eastern title. Forest Green Rovers, who eliminated James Lally's side from the Women's FA Cup last season, and Sherborne Town are holdovers from Bassett's most recent Premier Division campaign in 2022-23. The longest-serving current members of the division, they will be on the promotion hunt after finishing second and third respectively in 2025-26. Having suffered relegation from the FA Women's National League Division One South West, Portishead Town return to tier five. Portishead edged out Bassett on goal difference to claim the 2017-18 Eastern Division title and were Premier Division opponents of Bassett from 2018-19 to 2020-21 when they earned promotion to tier four. The teams will now meet again for the first time in six years. It's eight years since Bassett last met AEK Boco in the Eastern Division. Indeed, Boco are the league opponents Bassett have the longest history with, having played in Gloucestershire County Women's League Division One together from 2012-13 to 2015-16, with Bassett facing their Reserve or Development side in all other County League campaigns from 2009-10 through to their promotion to tier six at the end of 2016-17. Then for the first time, Bassett will cross paths with Yate Town, Saltash United and Yeovil Town in the league. Bassett have played numerous friendlies against Yate when they were attached to Pucklechurch Sports, but never a competitive contest. Pucklechurch were first promoted to the South West Regional League for the 2022-23 campaign and immediately won the Eastern Division with Bassett suffering relegation that year. They have now moved across to Yate. Cornish outfit Saltash, meanwhile, will be entering their second season in the Premier Division having won Division One South in 2024-25. 2025-26 Division One South champions Yeovil complete the trio of new opponents. The Glovers are a big name in women's football having previously competed in the Women's Super League from 2017 to 2019. However, financial difficulties saw them merge with Bridgwater Town in 2021 and drop the Yeovil name. But recent years have seen a revived Yeovil side climb up through the Somerset County League and up to tier five having spent two years at tier six. The full provisional constitution for the 2026-27 South West Regional Women's Football League Premier Division, featuring ten sides, is as follows: AEK Boco
Forest Green Rovers
Gloucester City
Poole Town
Portishead Town
Royal Wootton Bassett Town
Saltash United
Sherborne Town
Yate Town
 Yeovil Town The constitution is, at present, provisional and subject to change.

Youth Section Presentation Day - Saturday 13 June

RWBTFC — Sunday 31 May 2026

Royal Wootton Bassett Town will be holding its Youth Section Presentation Day on Saturday 13 June at the Gerard Buxton Sports Ground.

Presentations will take place in the stadium area at the following times for each team:

09:00: U7 Blue and Yellow
09:45: U8 Blue and 15 Blue
10:30: U10 Blue and Yellow
11:15: U12 Blue and Yellow
12:00: U11 Blue and Yellow
12:45: U13 Blue and Yellow
13:30: U14 Yellow
14:00: U8 Yellow and U15 Yellow
14:45: U16 Blue and Yellow
15:30: U9 Blue and Yellow

The following individual awards will be presented for each team:

Players' Player of the Year;
Manager's Player of the Year:
Most Improved Player of the Year (Under 7-11);
Clubperson of the Year (Under 12-18)

For the Under 7 to 11 age groups, all players registered with the club will also receive an individual memento. Players are requested to wear their club colours on the day - ie their playing kit. This is for photos that will take place after each presentation. Those attending are also requested to arrive in good time to ensure a prompt start for each session.

A barbecue will be running throughout the day, while an ice cream van has also been booked.

The AGP pitch has been booked and will be available for teams to book a slot should they wish to have a kick about. Please note that children using the AGP will need to be supervised at all times, while the correct footwear must be worn. We look forward to seeing you there to celebrate the 2025-26 season!

Celebrating Success: Women’s First Team

RWBTFC — Thursday 28 May 2026

Royal Wootton Bassett Town Women's First Team enjoyed an outstanding 2025-26 season as they claimed the South West Regional Women's Football League Division One North title and also finished as runners-up in the Wiltshire Women's Cup. South West Regional Women's Football League Division One North champions Some may think it's a cliche, but Royal Wootton Bassett Town were proof that 'defence wins championships' as they outlasted Corsham Town and Bitton to finish as champions of the 2025-26 South West Regional Women's Football League Division One North. In their 22 league games Bassett kept an astonishing 14 clean sheets - one more than the number of goals (13) they conceded over the course of the campaign. That's not to say that Bassett were entirely reliant on their backline for their success. Indeed, they racked up an impressive 61 goals. But in a tight, exciting title race that went down to the wire, Bassett's defensive strength proved decisive. Across the course of the season, Bassett won six times by the odd goal - including at home against Downend Flyers in their league opener when Elle Scott scored the only goal of the game. That victory was the start of a ten game unbeaten run that continued with a 2-0 home triumph against Gloucester City Reserves and 9-0 thrashing of Stockwood Wanderers. Bassett's first major test then came at home against the previous season's runners-up Bitton, a side who finished a place above Bassett in 2024-25. But it would be Bassett who struck a first, big blow as Briony Hurd, Maddy Elliott and Lauren Bulley were on target in a convincing 3-1 victory. Bassett's first dropped points of the season followed though away against newly promoted Mangotsfield United who had made a hot start to their campaign. Bassett had led 2-0 through Elliott and Tori Taylor, but the hosts came back to claim a draw. A Bulley brace got Bassett back on track in a 2-0 home victory against Paulton Rovers before an Honor Fraser double paced a big 5-0 win against Whitchurch, who - like Mangotsfield- had started life at tier six brightly. Another Bulley brace sealed a nervy 2-1 win at Downend before Bassett saw in the new year with a tough 1-1 derby draw against Cirencester Town. An 8-0 thrashing of AFC Brislington then made it ten unbeaten heading into a vital home fixture against Corsham. Despite their start, Bassett entered that game third in the table in a congested five team battle at the top. And they would slip to fourth as two second half goals earned Corsham a smash and grab win. Bassett bounced back as Taylor grabbed the only goal of the game away at Bath City and Bulley and Laura Jefferies scored to avenge their earlier Corsham loss. Then came a 5-0 win at Brislington. But a 0-0 draw at Whitchurch, despite extending their run of consecutive clean sheets to four games, did Bassett few favours as they still trailed leaders Corsham by three points with two games in hand to play and had Bitton hitting form. A 3-0 away win at Gloucester followed as Bulley, Hannah Gulliver and Poppy Wannell found the net. Bassett's next fixture was then a midweek trip to Bitton - and a crucial fixture went the visitors' way courtesy of a Taylor thunderbolt. That left Bassett, courtesy of their superior goal difference, more or less needing four wins from their final five games to seal the title. Bulley and Jefferies sealed a nervous, hard fought 2-0 triumph at home against Mangotsfield to begin the run in on the right foot. But Bassett then suffered a shock 3-2 reverse away at Stockwood in their next game to finally end a run of seven straight clean sheets and put the pressure on. At home against Cirencester, Bassett seemed on course to miss out on victory too. They trailed before going down to ten players. Briony Hurd equalised though and Megan Young snatched a late winner. Victory by the odd goal in five at home against Bath in their penultimate game - coupled with a draw between Bitton and Corsham - then put Bassett on the brink with their destiny in their own hands. A win away at Paulton in their final game would seal top spot - and Bassett delivered in style. Kelly Nightingale and top scorer Bulley found the net in the first half before Scott produced a second half hat trick in a title clinching 5-0 thrashing. Bassett's outstanding season had got the big reward it deserved. Wiltshire County Women's Cup Runners-Up To go along with their league title, Bassett also reached the final of the Wiltshire Women's Cup for the fifth time in the club's history. Bassett would have to settle for runners-up though (for the fourth time in the competition) after suffering a 7-0 defeat to big favourites Swindon Town in the final. Bassett's path to the final saw them rack up the goals. Maddy Elliott scored five, while six other scorers netted, in an 11-1 home win against Calne Town in the second round. That set up a quarter final date with Highworth Town - and Bassett would again hit double figures, this time without reply in an 11-0 victory. Lauren Bulley hit a hat trick while Kat Bach and Emma Sykes backed her up with braces. Bassett would then face Highworth again in the semi finals - this time in the form of their talented Under 18s team. Again drawn at home, a trio of braces from Elliott, Briony Hurd and Tori Taylor booked a final place. Facing a Swindon side who themselves would finish as league champions in the tier four FA Women's National League Division One South West, Bassett were always going to be up against it. And so proved. Despite giving a decent account of themselves, Bassett were well beaten as Swindon went 6-0 up in the first half before adding a further goal after the restart to continue their dominance of the competition.

Development team management change

RWBTFC — Wednesday 27 May 2026

Royal Wootton Bassett Town have made a change in their Development team management structure.

After six seasons with the Development side, including the past four as manager, the team will be moving into the 2026- 2027 season without Mark Simpkins at the helm. Mark leaves with the club's best wishes and sincere thanks for his outstanding efforts in what at times can be a challenging role. Simpkins, a former captain of the Men's First Team during his playing days, played a pivotal role as coach in Bassett's 2021-22 title winning campaign. Meanwhile over the past four seasons with Simpkins as manager, the Development team have continued to be highly competitive playing a positive brand of football in a division that has grown stronger and stronger each year in terms of the calibre of opposition. Stepping up to the role as manager will be Josh Connolly who served in an assistant capacity with the Development team last season. He will be joined by coaches Steve Heary and Lee Chamberlain. Commenting on the changes, Head of Men's Section Rab MacLeod said: "I want to personally thank Mark for all he has done with the Development team, as well as for helping me as I adjusted into my role in the club. He is a proper football person and will add real value to any club. We wish him every success in the future."

Celebrating Success: Under 18 Division 1 Champions and Cup Runners-Up

RWBTFC — Tuesday 26 May 2026

Royal Wootton Bassett Town Under 18 Blue enjoyed an outstanding 2025-26 campaign, romping to the North Wilts League Division One title while coming agonisingly close to completing the double as they fell short on penalties in the North Wilts League Cup final.

North Wilts League Under 18 Division One Champions Bassett were runaway champions in North Wilts League Division One, dropping just three points all season while finishing fourteen points clear of runners-up AFC Park. The Blues would concede just three times in their opening five games as they beat Malmesbury Victoria (6-1), Stratton Youth (3-0), Wroughton Youth (7-1), Wanborough Junior Black (6-0) and Ferndale Rodbourne (8-1). They then conceded three goals in consecutive games - but still won both as the hit Stratton Youth for six at home and put eight past FC Abbey Meads Youth Grey. A 5-0 win at Wroughton Youth followed before a pair of crucial 3-1 victories against Park had Bassett top and threatening to pull clear. That they did, extending their winning streak into double figures with a 10-1 thrashing of Draycott FC Dynamo and narrow wins against Ramsbury (5-4 away and 3-1 at home). After 14 wins though, their perfect record came to an end away against Croft Junior Blue as Bassett were beaten 3-1. But that would be Bassett's only league defeat. They soared past Park 8-2 before avenging their loss to Croft with a 6-1 home win. Bassett's final five games were all then awarded, with the title wrapped up North Wilts League Under 18 Cup Runners-Up Bassett would then come up just short in their quest to secure a historic double, falling on penalties to Ramsbury in a sudden death shootout after letting slip a 2-0 lead. After being awarded their second round tie against Wroughton Youth, Bassett saw off Division One rivals AFC Park 3-1 in the quarter finals before a convincing 5-1 victory against Stratton Youth in the last four. That set up a matchup with Ramsbury who Bassett had beaten twice in the league. They seemed on course for a third win - and to become the first Under 18 team to complete a North Wilts League double - courtesy of goals from Jack Moss and Rauf Acheampong. But, after seeing further chances to extend their lead go begging, Bassett conceded twice late on. And Ramsbury would have the final say on penalties.

Bowen’s on fire to win Fantasy League!

RWBTFC — Monday 25 May 2026

While Jarrod Bowen had a final gameday to forget as his West Ham United side were relegated, namesake Spencer had plenty to celebrate as he was crowned the 2025-26 RWBTFC Fantasy Football League champion! Entering the final round of games with a healthy lead, Bowen's Frimping Pong outfit sealed the deal with an impressive 79 points to take his season tally to 2,412. That left former Under 18s star Bowen (who also featured for Bassett's Men's First Team) 40 points clear of runner-up Vitor Oliveira and his vitigna's team side(2,372), with Tomas Warren's Chief Tuggers (2,338) snatching third from Robert Shepherd's Canine Capers (2,335). Jacob Hayden's Wirtz Nightmare and Matt Simpson's Simmo FC were not far behind, tying for fifth on 2,331 points. Bowen becomes the seventh winner of the league in the last seven years. Last year's champions Finlay Cranswick-Coates finished around the middle of the pack in 122nd place with 2024-25 champion Ben Tomes faring better by placing 11th. 2022-23 champion Joe Mitchell came a respectable 9th in the league - and made sure his name was once more etched onto the honours board as his Above Average Joes beat Arthur Kunz's MLKS Włodawianka 59-40 in the final of the cup competition. That result followed a narrow semi final victory for Mitchell's men over reigning cup holder Steven Astin's ABCDE FC. Huge thanks go to all 247 entrants who took part in this year's Fantasy League. The Fantasy League is always great fun and, importantly, remains free to enter for all - whether that be players (current and former), coaches, supporters, parents, volunteers, etc. The league will be up and running again next season for its 17th edition – and we look forward to seeing even more participants.