In a fresh show of backing for grassroots sport in Swindon, Wichelstowe LLP has once again stepped up to support local talent—this time with a £1,350 donation to Swindon Hockey Club. The contribution, made through the Wichelstowe LLP Community Fund, will help the club secure essential training gear, including weighted hockey nets, mini goals, new balls and kit.
This latest injection of funding builds on a previous £2,200 donation from Wichelstowe LLP during the 2019/20 season, which enabled the installation of much-needed dugouts at the club’s home ground.
Now firmly rooted at The Deanery Academy, Swindon Hockey Club has experienced significant growth in recent years. From a modest number of players, the club has flourished to field four men’s teams, three ladies’ teams, and both mixed and veterans squads. Their men’s first XI currently competes in the West League’s Championship division, while the ladies’ first team—who reached the National Two-Tier final last season—battle it out in the Premier League.
But it’s not just about the medals. The club has long championed accessibility and community spirit, keeping training costs low and nurturing a buzzing junior section with around 100 young players aged five to sixteen. Many hail from Wichelstowe’s growing community and several have already graduated to adult squads—some even donning Wiltshire colours at county level. Notably, four juniors are now part of the highly respected England Pathway Talent Academy, underlining the quality of development taking place on local turf.
Club Chairman Sam Dharmasiri was full of praise for the ongoing support:
“We’re incredibly grateful to Wichelstowe LLP. This latest donation has allowed us to invest in much-needed equipment that will benefit every age group. As our membership continues to grow, this support helps us attract new players and give them the best possible start.”
Daniel Pavely, project director at Wichelstowe, echoed that sentiment:
“We’re proud to continue our relationship with Swindon Hockey Club. It plays a vital role in encouraging young people to get involved in sport and become part of a thriving, welcoming community. Supporting organisations like this ensures the area remains vibrant and active.”
This support aligns with Wichelstowe’s long-term vision. The joint venture between Swindon Borough Council and developers Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes is delivering a sustainable, community-driven development with 3,000 new homes, schools, allotments and recreational space across 250 hectares.
The site also features 12km of nature trails, 200 acres of green space, and restored stretches of the historic Wilts and Berks Canal. With swift connections to the M4 and Swindon Station, the area continues to attract families looking for a balanced lifestyle close to nature and opportunity.
New housing phases are on the horizon too, with Barratt David Wilson launching fresh properties at Canalside in early 2025. Interested buyers can register at www.dwh.co.uk, while Barratt Homes Bristol prepares to unveil new homes at Wichel Fields. More details on Orchards Rise and Orchards View developments are also available.
For those looking to pick up a hockey stick or simply learn more about the club, visit www.swindonhockeyclub.com.
