This year marks a remarkable milestone for one of West Ham United Foundation’s most cherished community programmes, the Any Old Irons.
Launched a decade ago as a six-week social pilot aimed at tackling loneliness among older fans, the initiative has since blossomed into a beloved network of over 400 senior Hammers across east London and Essex.
Supported by the West Ham United Foundation, Any Old Irons began with encouragement from the late former Chairman David Gold, and has grown into more than just a social group. It’s a lifeline, a family and a tribute to the enduring connection between the Club and its loyal supporters aged 65 and over.
The ten-year anniversary was commemorated in fitting style with a celebration at Loxford Social Club in Barking, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of West Ham’s 1975 FA Cup win. Over 100 members from the Hadleigh and Newham groups gathered to share memories, sing ‘Bubbles’ and meet legends who helped shape the Club’s proud history.
West Ham United Head Coach Graham Potter made a surprise appearance, leaving a lasting impression on attendees. “It was incredible, and there was real love in the room,” Potter said. “As soon as you walk in, you can feel the connection. The Any Old Irons is such a great initiative, bringing people together with the Club. These moments, where the Club’s history and community intertwine, are really special.”
One man who has embodied the heart and soul of the group is Steve Maynard, affectionately known as ‘West Ham Steve’. A founding member, Steve recalled the humble beginnings of Any Old Irons. He said: “I went to the very first meeting with the late, great David Gold, Don Adams, the Any Old Irons Chairman, and Eileen Wade. At the end of the six weeks, we thought it was a shame for it to stop, so we kept it going. We started at Nathan’s pie and mash shop in Green Street with about ten of us, and it’s just grown from there.”
For Steve, the group is deeply personal. “I’d be lost without Any Old Irons,” he continued. “One of the main reasons I do it is because I feel like I’m helping other people by giving them somewhere to go.”
Steve also shared a moment that captures the essence of the group’s impact. He said: “There was a man who brought his dad, who had dementia. The son wasn’t into football, but I sat with his dad and did a West Ham quiz. As soon as we started talking about Bobby Moore and the old players, he just came to life. That’s what Any Old Irons is about.”
From walking football sessions with former players, to Q&As with legends such as Sir Trevor Brooking and Alvin Martin, to simply sharing stories over tea, Any Old Irons has created an enduring community built on pride, belonging and mutual care.
The West Ham United Foundation is immensely proud to have supported the Any Old Irons for the past decade, and remains committed to ensuring every supporter, regardless of age, feels part of the Claret and Blue family.
For more information about the Any Old Irons, or any other Foundation programme, please contact [email protected]
