Melksham Town stalwart celebrates 50 years of service

Melksham Town Football Club stalwart Dave Phillips has celebrated 50 years’ service to the club.

Dave first joined the club’s committee on 12th June 1976, immediately taking on the role of assistant secretary. It marked the start of a lifelong commitment that has seen him serve in a variety of roles, including secretary, vice-chairman and now life president, while attending more than 2,100 competitive matches, home and away.

“My first job when I joined the committee was to clear out the old shed which became the club’s cellar, and since then, the club has been my life,” said Dave.

“Highlights include seeing us win the Wiltshire Premier Shield in 2000 against Swindon Town, beating them 1—0 in the final at their ground, winning the Western League Division One title in 1979/80 and then again in 1996/97 and the Western League Premier title in 2015. Also winning the Les Phillips Cup in 2016/17.

“There have been many ups and downs over the years, but I’ve seen us win six Wiltshire Premier Shields and six Wiltshire Senior Cups so feel very lucky.”

First introduced to Melksham Town as an eight-year-old in 1954 by his dad, Dave grew up watching matches before moving to Bath for work. On returning to Melksham, he decided to get involved with the club.

“I thought instead of criticising from the sidelines, I would go and help out. So I joined the club – and that was it.”

His first match in an official capacity was an FA Cup tie away at Cinderford Town in September 1976. He has since attended 2,107 games – and counting – documenting each one, earning a reputation as the club’s unofficial historian. For more than 20 years, he also wrote match reports for Melksham News.

“I’ve seen 21 managers at the club and seven club chairmen and have made many, many friends over the years,” he added. “I’ve met so many people – players, officials, supporters and have so many great memories; I feel so lucky to have been involved.”

Tributes have poured in from supporters, former players, club officials and teams across Wiltshire and beyond in recognition of his contribution.

“I was overwhelmed by the messages,” added Dave. “The club has been a huge part of my life. I still enjoy every minute and will carry on for as long as I can.”