Oxford United in the Community announce James Constable as patron

The football club’s official charity helps inspire youngsters to reach their potential and improve their health and wellbeing via the power of football, engagement and education. James Constable, known as Beano, played for United between 2008 and 2014 and scored 106 goals, making him the club’s all-time second highest goal scorer. As Patron, James will share his expertise and help shape and support initiatives where appropriate. The appointment comes as Oxford United in the Community celebrates its 30 year anniversary.

James said: “It’s an absolute honour to have been asked to be Patron of Oxford United in the Community and I jumped at the chance. I’ve such fond memories of my career at Oxford and have so many friends there. Community is so important and football clubs have such an opportunity to engage and help people and I’ve always viewed it as a privilege and responsibility. Oxford United in the Community plays a vital role in supporting people in the county and I’m looking forward to supporting the charity in any way I can.”

Chris Lowes, Head of Operations at Oxford United in the Community, said: “This is a major step for the charity. Having such a popular and engaging figure like James on-board will help us elevate the profile of Oxford United in the Community and empower us to deliver more results. We can’t wait to work with him and know his patronage and contribution will strengthen our cause.”

Greig Box Turnbull, Vice Chair of Trustees of Oxford United in the Community, added: “We wanted to appoint someone who understands the club, our community and the importance of the work the charity does. Plus, someone with an affinity for the club, fans and charity and who could help raise our profile. Beano was the obvious choice. He is a real role model who inspires so many in our community. When we spoke to James he jumped at the chance, which demonstrates his passion for Oxford.”

James joined fellow United legend Peter Rhoades-Brown as a Patron of Oxford United in the Community. Rosie was one of the pioneers of the community football initiatives in the late 1980’s which became the football charities of today.

Oxford United in the Community’s coaching staff deliver programmes in nursery and primary schools across Oxfordshire. They are qualified not only in football coaching, but in teaching interventions including Real PE, which focuses on the development of agility, balance and coordination, healthy competition and cooperative learning. The charity also delivers the popular Manor Club to the over 50’s to help tackle isolation in the older community.