New Goal For Surrey’s Firefighters, Building a Winning Football Team

Published on: 30 Oct, 2020
Updated on: 30 Oct, 2020

From L to R – Simon Capel, Surrey Fire and Rescue Service, Dan Quin, Surrey Fire and Rescue Service.

Surrey Fire and Rescue Service launches its own football team this month as they join the Emergency Services Football League, a nationwide competition consisting teams from emergency, prison and Armed Services.

Led by manager Simon Capel, the squad of 40 is supported by Surrey Football Association (FA) which is providing use of their Meadowbank football ground in Dorking for their home matches.

The team hopes to build on a recent charity tournament win for their first match on November 4, subject to Covid-19 and FA guidelines.

Dan Quin, deputy chief fire officer, said: “We’re delighted that after lying dormant for years the new-look Surrey Fire and Rescue Service football team has been re-established.

“We hope this is an opportunity to contribute positively to the mental and physical well-being of our staff and also an opportunity to highlight our prevention services to the community.

“We’re very grateful to Surrey FA for hosting us and to our sponsors, Unique Technical Solutions and D & R Carpentry & Building Services who have provided a fantastic new kit.”

Sally Lockyer, chief executive officer, Surrey FA, said: “We are excited to welcome the Surrey Fire and Rescue Service team to Meadowbank. The ground is community-centred and I am so pleased we have an opportunity to open our doors and host key emergency service workers here.

“We hope to strengthen ties with the Fire and Rescue Service over the course of the season and use our platform to increase fire-safety awareness across Surrey. We all wish the team the best of luck for the season ahead.”

Surrey FA is a charitable organisation, responsible for leading the development of grassroots football within Surrey, ensuring participation and enjoyment of football is for all. It is responsible for governing grassroots clubs, leagues, players and match officials across the county.

The association seeks to improve opportunities and engagement for children and adults across the county and strives to positively influence participation for all in football, regardless of age, ability, sex, sexual orientation, race, religion and socio-economic status.