A team of volunteers are crowdfunding to restore a lost football club in Barnes.

Barnes Football Club was founded in 1862 and had great importance in the development of football in 19th century.

The club took part in the first ever FA Cup in 1871-72, with 15 consecutive editions of the competition.

However, very little information remains about what happened to Barnes FC afterwards.

The last records show the club was playing in local leagues from 1930s-1960s, but it was most likely dissolved after this period.

Richmond and Twickenham Times: The club plans to play at Barn Elms Park. [Image via Ranko Davidov]The club plans to play at Barn Elms Park. [Image via Ranko Davidov]

Now, a group of volunteers are looking to revive the club, after decades spent dormant.

“Barnes is of one of the most beautiful London area and it deserves a modern, sustainable community football club.” 

“Our initiative is to re-establish Barnes FC and to involve local passionate football fans and enthusiasts to support this community project,” said volunteer and football enthusiast Ranko Davidov.

The club’s mission is to promote local participation through healthy and affordable activities that improve social welfare.

It seeks to engage all members regardless of ability or disability, race, religion, gender, age or sexual orientation.

Barnes FC will be playing on its historical ground at Barn Elms Park, with Barn Elms Sport Centre used as the dressing rooms and training facilities.

Whilst there are no historical records of the club's badge or logo, its former home kit was thought to be dark blue and white stripes or hoops. The organisation plan to keep it that way, with a new branded design.

Richmond and Twickenham Times: Proposed Barnes FC kit. [Image via Ranko Davidov] Proposed Barnes FC kit. [Image via Ranko Davidov]

The grassroots football club is run by a volunteer management committee and is registered in Companies House as a company limited by guarantee, with not-for-profit goals and owned by its members.

The chairman, secretary, treasurer, marketing and legal representatives are experienced in finance, sport administration, legal, marketing and IT fields and have successful careers in corporate and private environments.

The club has already received sponsorship from Fulham based business, Avanguardian Gallery.

The £1,000 donation will cover their initial set-up and marketing campaign costs.

However, the club’s finance goal for the 2021/22 season is £7,500 – which includes a part-time coach, balls and equipment and football kits.

Mr Davidov is appealing to Barnes and the wider community for their support.

He said: “We hope our project will inspire the local community to join our initiative.

“We are open for conversation with local businesses, but also individuals, who will find their interests or personal aspirations in supporting our mission - and with your support, nothing is impossible! Barnes FC can play FA Cup again!”