PubAid has launched a new campaign to shine a light on the fundamental role pubs play in sustaining grassroots sports clubs and community wellbeing across the UK.
Pubs Power Sport, backed by headline sponsors Guinness and Sky Business, will conduct research to uncover the monetary value pubs raise for sports clubs and initiatives.
This will build on its 2019 ‘Pubs and Sport: The Perfect Match’ report that found pubs raised more than £40m in support of grassroots sports.
Pubs Power Sport will also celebrate the everyday contributions of publicans who power grassroots sport behind the scenes. This can be anything from sponsoring kits to hosting team meetings or providing food and fundraising events.
Essential community hubs
The campaign highlights that pubs are more than places to eat and drink, they are essential community hubs supporting everything from Sunday league football to darts, cricket and rugby clubs.
PubAid co-founder Des O’Flanagan said: “Pubs have long been the beating heart of their communities, and Pubs Power Sport brings their impact on grassroots sport to the forefront.
“This campaign is about showing that behind nearly every local team is a local pub offering space, support and spirit, often with no fanfare. We’re proud to work with Guinness and Sky Business to give pubs the recognition they deserve.”
Head of Guinness Nick Payman said: “We’re delighted to be part of a movement that gives visibility to the unsung role pubs play in keeping community sport going. We want to champion the passion and quiet generosity of landlords and locals that make the difference every week.”
Value of pubs
Sky Business director of hospitality James Tweddle said: “Sky has always recognised the value pubs bring to their communities, and sport is at the centre of that. By supporting Pubs Power Sport, we’re celebrating the landlords who not only show the big games but also keep sport alive in their communities in real and meaningful ways.”
A full report will be produced as part of Pubs Power Sport and publicans are encouraged to take part in a short survey to help build the picture of how pubs support sport.
By filling it in, they’ll be entered into a prize draw and be in with a chance of winning football tickets courtesy of Guinness and Sky Business.
Complete the survey by visiting here.
