The Bashley Story

Bashley Football Club was founded in 1947 and joined the Bournemouth League in 1950, progressing through the ranks before leaving in 1983 to join the Hampshire League. In 1986 they became founder members of the Wessex League and won the title for the first three years they took part, 1986/87, 1987/88 and 1988/89. In the 1987/88 season, Bashley came to national prominence after an incredible run in the FA Vase, which came to an end they reached the semi-finals, losing 2-0 to Emley in the second leg of the semi-final after a 0-0 draw at the Recreation Ground.

Following their third Wessex League title, the club were accepted into the Southern League Southern Division and amazingly won the title in their first season, gaining promotion to the Premier Division. Things almost got even better the following season as Bash led the table for a long period of time and were in contention for promotion to the Conference, but fell away towards the end to finish in fourth place. Sadly the meteoric rise of the club came to an end as a result of relegation two years later back to the Southern Division.

In the 1994/95 season, Bashley reached the First Round proper of the FA Cup for the first time, and won 1-0 at Chesham to set up a Second Round tie with Swansea at the Recreation Ground. Despite losing 1-0, Lee Walker hit the post in injury time and Richie Paskins had a clear chance which wasn't taken as Bash almost caused a huge upset.

Promotion to the British Gas Business Premier Division in 2007-8 will bring a fresh challenge, and new grounds to visit, as well as renewing acquaintances from Bashley's previous spells at this level. Players, officials and supporters are looking forward to the new season to see how Bash fare at the higher level but are quietly confident of being competitive.