Bowers & Pitsea Football Club, nicknamed “The Bowers,” is a non-league football club based in Basildon, Essex.
Established in 1970, they currently compete in the Pitching In Isthmian League North Division, which is part of the eighth tier of English football. The team calls Len Salmon Stadium their home ground.
History
Bowers United, founded in 1946 by Bert Salmon, underwent significant changes over the years. Originally playing at Gun Meadow, Pitsea, the club moved to Crown Avenue, Pitsea, after their original ground was acquired for the new A13 construction. This location, purchased from the Basildon Development Corporation, featured prefabricated dressing rooms. The club’s stadium was named in honor of Len Salmon, a pivotal figure in the club’s history.
In 1998/99, under Tony Cross’s management, Bowers United won the Essex Senior League title and cup, alongside individual accolades. A major transformation occurred in 2004/05 when Bowers United merged with Pitsea Football Club, becoming Bowers & Pitsea Football Club. This merger led to enhanced community ties and improved facilities, capable of accommodating over 2000 spectators.pu
Rob Small’s appointment as manager in 2014/15 marked a successful era, with the team finishing as league runners-up and winning the Essex Senior League Challenge Cup in his first season. The 2015/16 season was even more triumphant, winning the Essex Senior League Championship and reaching the FA Vase semi-finals.
Bowers & Pitsea then ascended to the BetVictor Isthmian League, with notable finishes, including third place in 2017/18. The 2018/19 season was exceptional, culminating in league leadership with 92 points. Despite a disrupted 2019/20 season due to COVID-19, the club’s development, including a new 3G pitch and upgraded facilities, points to a bright future.