ECFC Charity Fundraisers
Football, Fun and Fundraising
A Community Interest Company
When Friday nights, 8–9 pm
Where: St James Astro
Cost: Affordable for all
ECFC Beacon Wanderers
Our story
Beacon Wanderers began with a simple but powerful idea: to create a space where anyone — regardless of age, gender, background, or experience — can rediscover the joy of football.
Founded by Greg Manley, in partnership with Exeter City and the Community Trust, our very first sessions featured just a handful of players inside “the cage” at Beacon Heath Centre. What started as a safe, supportive kickabout has grown into a thriving, welcoming community.
Now proudly affiliated with the Walking Football Association, we welcome up to 20 players every Friday evening. We’re also working closely with ECFC’s charity fundraising team to build pathways into — and back from — mainstream football.
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Our players come from all walks of life
Those returning from injury, coping with grief, managing mental health challenges, or navigating social anxiety.
For many, it’s the first time in years, or ever that they’ve felt truly part of a team.
We don't play for the score, we play for community, connection, and confidence.
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The pitch is simply a platform for people to feel seen, supported, and celebrated.
Our proudest moments so far...
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A 7-stone weight loss
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A grandmother trying football for the first time
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Growth from 4 to 20+ regular players
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A member returning to mainstream 11-a-side football after saving a penalty
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Improved mental health and a thriving “wellness chat” on WhatsApp
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Our first game
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A meeting with Active Leisure and Councillor Wood on the horizon to strengthen our community support
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Fantastic recognition from local partners and supporters
And we’re only just getting started!