Football and broadcasting legend Chris Kamara has visited Chesham as part of Howdens’ ‘Champion of the Trade Day’ campaign.

The scheme thanks tradespeople in the area for helping to transform over 100 grassroots football club kitchens so far, as part of the the company’s Game Changer Programme.

The event, which took place on August 20th, saw Chris, who is also known as Kammy, meet customers and celebrate the 100th kitchen transformation in the initiative.

During the festivities at the depot on Moor Road in the town, tradespeople were treated to on-the-day deals, a chat with Chris, and enter a prize draw for football merchandise and stadium tour tickets.

Chris, 66, who has been an ambassador of the programme for the past two years, said: “This campaign highlights how important grassroots football clubs are to the community they are based in, helping to develop local talent and improve the confidence of players.”

“Without tradespeople willing to give up their time to help with this transformation programme, none of this would have been possible.

“They have been instrumental in ensuring that the clubs who have been successful in their application for a new kitchen have received one, setting them up for continued success and giving the club the chance to generate revenue and benefit the wider community.

Kammy with the Howdens Kammy with the Howdens (Image: Howdens)

“More than 100 kitchens have been transformed up and down the country.

“However, there’s still a lot of work to do, with many more needing a revamp.

“The Game Changer Programme has been a huge success, and many more clubs could benefit so look out for the next window of applications.”

Overall, 45 clubs in the region have been awarded a new kitchen so far including MK United FC, Cambourne Town FC and Luton Town Ladies FC.

The aim of the £3m investment programme, courtesy of Howdens in partnership with England Football, is to support grassroots football with improved clubhouse facilities and bring local communities closer together.

David Sturdee, Chief Customer Officer at Howdens, adds: "Our Champions of the Trade Day has been a way for us to say thank you and celebrate the tradespeople that we work with.

“Howdens is only available through the trade because the trade has the know-how and craftsmanship to complete the job to the highest standard – they have also demonstrated their impact on the local communities through their support of the Game Changer Programme.”

To find out more about Howdens products, visit Howdens.com