The Premier League comes to Essex

Premier League Trophy to Visit Essex Senior League for Non-League Day

The Essex Senior League is set to celebrate Non-League Day in spectacular fashion, with the Premier League Trophy making a special tour across three of our clubs on Saturday 22 March.

Fans will have the unique opportunity to see and take photos with English football’s most prestigious prize as it visits Benfleet FC, Buckhurst Hill FC, and Takeley FC.

Non-League Day is an annual event encouraging football supporters to back their local non-league clubs on a weekend when there is no Premier League or Championship action. The presence of the Premier League Trophy adds an extra layer of excitement, showcasing the connection between the top flight and the grassroots game.

The trophy’s Essex Senior League tour will take in the following fixtures:

• Benfleet FC vs. FC Clacton – Woodside Stadium (12:00 kick-off)

• Buckhurst Hill FC vs. Hullbridge Sports – Myrak Park (15:00 kick-off)

• Takeley FC vs. Saffron Walden – Full Vision Stadium (19:45 kick-off)

Premier League Investment in Non-League Football

This occasion also highlights the impact of Premier League investment in non-league football. Each of the three host clubs has benefitted from significant funding via the Premier League Stadium Fund, which has helped improve their facilities and infrastructure:

• Benfleet FC has received £148,000 towards a major ground refurbishment, including new spectator accommodation, dugouts, fencing, and LED floodlights.

• Buckhurst Hill FC has received £100,000 for upgrades such as LED floodlights, fencing, a perimeter barrier, dugouts, and spectator areas.

• Takeley FC has received £110,000 for pitch drainage improvements and new LED floodlights, which will be officially switched on before the Saffron Walden fixture.

Premier League Stadium Fund

The Premier League Stadium Fund, now celebrating its 25th anniversary, has invested over £207 million into infrastructure projects at more than 1,000 clubs across the football pyramid. The Premier League itself is committing £1.6 billion into football and communities across England and Wales between 2022-25, ensuring that clubs at all levels can continue to grow and thrive.

The visit of the Premier League Trophy provides an incredible opportunity for fans to experience a piece of football history while supporting local non-league football with three fantastic fixtures this promises to be a Non-League Day to remember.