THE VERY BEGINNING
(Extracts from the Centenary Brochure)
Reported in the Mid Sussex Times on Tuesday, September 29th, 1896:
A meeting was held in the Reading Room on Thursday evening with the object of establishing a Village Football Club. Over 30 persons interested in Football were present, amongst them being Major Strachan, the Rev. G H Bode, Mr L Gunter and Mr A Gunter.
At the request of the Meeting the Chair was taken by the Rev. G H Bode, who said he always had a great interest in Football and would be pleased to help them as he had often thought of establishing a Club himself, but he had come to the conclusion that it would be much better if it came from amongst themselves. He advised them to pull well together and no doubt they would soon have a very successful Club. Discussions ensued and it was unanimously agreed that a Club should be formed and that it be termed “THE ARDINGLY FOOTBALL CLUB”, under Association Rules.
Mr F C Bayliss was appointed Secretary and Treasurer and in accepting Office remarked, he was always pleased to do what he could to promote the enjoyment of others.
It was also resolved that the Annual Subscription for Playing Members should be one shilling per annum and that no member should be less than 14 years of age. Honorary Members Subscriptions are fixed at no less than half a crown per year.
Officers of the club were elected as follows.-
President: Major Strachan Vice Presidents: Rev. G H Bode and Mr W Turner Captain: Mr L Gunter Vice Captain Mr W Davis
Working Committee: Messrs C Holman, J Lewry, A Duffield, S Baker, L Holman and T Holman.
Major Strachan said it gave such pleasure to attend such an enthusiastic Meeting and he would always be pleased to do what he could in favour of the Club. He would present each Member with a copy of the Association Football Rules.
Mr L Gunter also kindly promised to present the Club with its first Football.
Mr W Davis proposed a vote of thanks to the Chairman and other Gentlemen present, which was heartedly accorded and he brought to a close a most successful Meeting.
A Committee Meeting was held last night (Monday), when other necessary arrangements were made.
It was hoped that the Club will be able to play on Saturday afternoon next on the Recreation Ground.