Cheltenham Town Supporter Turns 80 and Celebrates with 80 Length Swim for Charity
31st October 2025
A lifelong Cheltenham Town Football Club supporter is marking his 80th birthday in a remarkable way, by swimming 80 lengths of a pool to raise money for Cheltenham Town Community Trust.
Adrian Bailey, who first watched the Robins play in 1958, has launched his “80:80 Challenge”, swimming one length for every year of his life, totalling over a mile. His aim is to celebrate a lifetime of loyalty to the club while supporting the Trust’s work across Gloucestershire.
“Turning eighty gives me the perfect opportunity to challenge myself while celebrating both the club I love and the power of sport to bring people together,” said Adrian. “You’re never too old to make a difference.”
A Lifetime of Loyalty
Adrian grew up on the St Mark’s estate in Cheltenham and first developed his love of football at Monks Croft Junior School before going on to play for Leckhampton Youth Team. His first Robins match. a 4–0 win over Kidderminster Harriers in 1959 sparked a lifelong passion for the club.
Even after moving to Sandwell, he has continued to make regular trips to Whaddon Road to support the team.
Over the years, Adrian has enjoyed a varied career as a teacher, librarian, antiques dealer, auctioneer, councillor and later as Member of Parliament for West Bromwich West. During his time in Parliament, he worked alongside Cheltenham’s late MP Nigel Jones to promote the interests of lower and non-league football clubs.
“The club has been part of my life for over six decades,” Adrian said. “When I learned about the amazing work of the Community Trust, I knew I wanted to give something back.”
Supporting Cheltenham Town Community Trust
Adrian’s challenge will raise funds for the Cheltenham Town Community Trust, the charitable arm of Cheltenham Town FC, which uses the power of sport to change lives across Gloucestershire.
The Trust’s programmes support people of all ages and backgrounds through:
- Schools and Education – delivering PE, literacy, numeracy and health lessons in schools.
- Health and Wellbeing – promoting mental health awareness, healthy lifestyles and inclusion.
- Football for All – creating affordable, inclusive opportunities for children, young people, girls and those with disabilities.
- Community Engagement – connecting people in care homes, youth centres and local communities to tackle isolation and build confidence.
“Every donation will help the Trust continue its work across Gloucestershire,” added Adrian. “Whether you give £8, £18 or £80, every contribution makes a difference.”
Community Spirit in Action
Simon Perruzza, Chief Executive at Cheltenham Town Community Trust, said:
“Adrian’s story captures everything that makes Cheltenham Town special – passion, community spirit and generosity. His 80:80 Challenge is an inspiring way to celebrate a milestone birthday while giving back to the local community.”
How to Support
Adrian will complete his 80 laps on Thursday 11 December 2025 and he is encouraging everyone to show their support, whether you are a Cheltenham Town fan, a fellow swimmer, or simply inspired by his challenge.
All funds raised will go directly to Cheltenham Town Community Trust, helping them continue their vital work in communities across Gloucestershire.
Donations can be made via Adrian’s JustGiving page:
https://www.justgiving.com/page/adrianbailey80for80challenge
