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125th anniversary of Ards Football Club

EDM (Early Day Motion) 1863: tabled on 08 September 2025

Tabled in the 2024-26 session.

This motion has been signed by 2 Members. It has not yet had any amendments submitted.

Motion text

That this House celebrates 125 years of Ards FC, formed in 1900 by workers from Webb’s Weaving Company on the Crawfordsburn Road in Newtownards; notes the club’s rich history, including players such as World Cup winner George Eastham who was part of England’s 1966 squad, and full Irish internationals Andy Bothwell, Tommy Forde, Billy Humphries and Paul Kee; highlights their trophy successes, including winning the Irish League Championship in 1958 and, in 1973-74, when four trophies were won and Belgian side Standard Liège were defeated at Castlereagh Park in front of 8,000 spectators; recognises the diversity of their academy that caters for 24 teams, with age groups ranging from 4 to 18; is aware that they also operate a very successful Inclusion team which has grown from strength to strength over recent years; further highlights the legacy the football club has created; believes there is a bright future with potential prospects of a new stadium; and wishes the club all the very best for many more years of success.

The first 6 Members who have signed to support the motion are the sponsors. The primary sponsor is generally the person who tabled the motion and has responsibility for it. The date shown is when the Member signed the motion.

There are no withdrawn signatures for this motion.