England won the World Cup in 1966 and this event sparked a ‘soccer boom’ in the country. So many youngsters took up the game, overfilling places in local teams many times over. Established teams created 2nd. and 3rd, elevens and new teams were born in towns and villages around the country.
Udimore had fielded one team since the era after the Second World War, but within three seasons following England’s triumph they, along with many other local sides, were putting out a second team.
Even this was not enough to satisfy the craving of Britain’s youth for ‘the beautiful game’. As late as 1969 some councils frowned upon sport on Sundays and would not allow grounds they controlled to be used on the Sabbath. When this restriction was lifted there was a rush to form Pub Teams and Sunday Leagues.
One such side was “The Globe” in Rye. Albeit made up by a preponderance of players that had performed the day before for regular Saturday teams. “The Globe” and “The Union” were the two most successful local Pub teams.
Send in pictures for your team from the 60’s and 70’s.