RECKLESS GUIDE TO BURNHAM-ON-CROUCH

Pre-Season Friendly

Saturday 14th July 2012

Kick off 3.00 pm

Stadium: Leslie Field Stadium, Springfield Road, Burnham-on-Crouch, Essex, CM0 8TE

Telephone: 01621 784 383

Club Colours: Navy and Sky Blue

Nickname: The Ramblers

Official Club Website: http://www.burnhamramblersfc.co.uk/

Useless-but-interesting Info: The Ramblers play in the Essex Senior League and finished 4th last season. Their manager is former club captain Keith Wilson who had spells as a player at Hornchurch, East Thurrock, Great Wakering and Tilbury, all in the Ryman League.

Brief Directions by Road: The A127 would be my preferred route just because of the Barnet legends connection. M25 to A127 signposted Wickford. Turn off at the A132 (Wickford). Pop in and visit Lee Harrison for breakfast before heading through Battlesbridge to South Woodham Ferrers where you could stop for a cuppa with Paul Wilson or have a wander around Jimmy Lye’s garden. It is tempting to say hello to Ben Embery which would only involve a short detour. At South Woodham Ferrers look for the B1012 signposted North Fambridge – Ian Hendon doesn’t live far from here and he always has a fridge full of beer. Take the B1010 (Burnham Road) and follow this delightful twisting and turning road through Althorne and Ostend to Burnham-on-Crouch. You will see a turning on the right signposted Creeksea where you go straight on finding Springfield Road as the second turning the right. Turn right opposite the MOT centre and follow the road around into the club car park.

Car Parking: There is a large free car park at the ground.

Directions by Train: First Great Eastern services from Liverpool Street. A Southend train would need a change at Wickford for a Southminster train (unless there is a through service from Liverpool Street). At Burnham-on-Crouch turn out onto Station Approach. Take Church Road and then left into Maldon Road. Walk along Maldon Road to Springfield Road which should be the third turning on the left. Yeah I agree a cab would be better!

Eating and Drinking Locally: The club are obviously hoping that visiting fans will use the social club but as always I have a Reckless recommendation for pre match entertainment! Seek out Ye Olde White Harte Hotel, The Quay, Burnham-on-Crouch, Essex, CM0 8AS. My spies tell me that in this 17th century hostelry bar meals can be consumed whilst overlooking the river and are first class. Why not pop into the Anchor Inn which is a few yards stagger away for a quick one before grabbing a cab to the ground as it is a bit of a walk and I don’t do "walking" at away games much these days

Ground Description: Leslie Field has been the ramblers’ home since 1987. The small seating area is incorporated into the main pavilion at the ground with approx 150 backless seats. I love the traditional gabled roof – a touch of design class! Covered standing accommodation is offered opposite with the remainder of the ground a sturdy perimeter walkway.

Admission Prices: £8 for adults and £4 for children and concessions

Celebrity Watch: Rumours are that Boy "Mr. O Dowd" George has been spotted along the Quayside and that boxer and wit Frank Bruno has a house in the area. TV channel Nickleodeon presenter James Rickers has been spotted in the Burnham Boat Club bar having a drink with singer Kate Walsh. Allegedly!