I’ve been lucky enough to be part of a couple of events over the Summer which demonstrate, yet again, that Brentford FC is much more than just what happens on the pitch. Through partnerships with fans, experts and local organisations the Club continues to make a big impact within our community and beyond.
On 9th August I was delighted to help launch the Gtech Community Garden ahead of the Wolfsburg match. Along with BFC, BIAS and Sustaina-Bees colleagues from the Sustainability Working Group.
We were busy planting up the space the week before.
We had guidance from Cultivate London, a social enterprise and charity who work to improve health and wellbeing across London by encouraging and supporting local communities to engage with their green spaces.
The garden has almost 25 plant species ranging from wildflowers to ornamental and mixed herbs.
It is also home to our memorial bed, a dedicated space which allows us to honour and remember loved Bees fans who are no longer with us.
Fans and the community will be involved in maintaining the garden which is situated on Lionel Road South near the steps to the North and West stands.
Do drop past when you next visit the stadium and let us know what you think.
If you have got any thoughts, do Tell Sharon.
In August I was also invited to hear more about the work of the Heart of West London partnership. In the UK it’s estimated that 12 people under 35 die each week from undiagnosed heart conditions. The Heart of West London is a long-term partnership and commitment bringing together key players in the cardiac health world to make a difference.
The evening had expert input from the Club’s partners including Brentford FC Community Sports Trust, Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals Charity, Cardiac Risk in the Young and the Resuscitation Council UK about future research and awareness raising.
We heard from Suzanne Rowan, the partner of Brentford’s late technical director Robert Rowan who passed away in 2018 after suffering a fatal cardiomyopathy episode.
Suzanne campaigns and fundraises for cardiac health in Robert’s memory, and it is always incredibly moving to hear her speaking about how important it is to raise awareness and understanding on this issue.
We also watched Ray Harris’ story, reinforcing the importance of CPR training.
A long-time fan who many of you may know, Ray suffered a cardiac arrest in the Dugout at the Gtech.
Steward Jake Mead-Baker and other support staff were on hand to give Ray CPR and save his life. If you haven’t seen Ray’s story do watch it on YouTube
So it’s the start of another season and we’ll all be consumed by team selection, tactics, results and league positions over the coming months. But let’s also remember that when our Club, fans and community come together we are a huge force for good and – no matter what happens on the pitch – let’s continue to celebrate what we can achieve together.
Sharon Wright
BU Deputy Chair