The famed 17th century diarist Samuel Pepys reportedly stated that ‘The Pub is the heart of England.’ Four centuries down the line, this relationship between the people and this focal meeting place has never been more important.
When it comes to football, this bond is elevated to a whole new level. Both the pub and football were traditionally the realm of the working man, so it stands to reason that the two would be intrinsically linked. It was a common place to meet and escape the grind of the working week, where the loosening qualities of alcohol and competitive sport formed a central part of social life.
Throughout the testimony of a handful of fans and punters, The Heart of England tells the story of this kindred relationship between the pub, football and the people who go there. From the greatest nights of their lives to the sadness of losing this experience through the Covid-19 pandemic, The Heart of England lets the fans tell how much this place means to the them
Documentary commissioned by Copa90.
Film By: Nick Manser, Sam Lewis, and Rory Reames
Times have fallen hard on Southend United in recent years. From securing League One promotion at Wembley in 2015 to now facing the prospect of dropping out of the English Football League for the first time in their 114 year history.
Among their drastic dip in form has been other causes for concern as well. Constantly chased by the taxman, unpaid players, transfer embargos, and a torturously delayed move to a new stadium, the bad news seems endless. Many at Roots Hall now point the finger for this demise upon their long standing chairman, Ron Martin.
Dear Chairman is the sum of these woes, encapsulated in a hand written letter to Ron by life long Shrimper, Kerry Fairless.
Documentary commissioned by Copa90.
Bury FC have an incredibly rich and important history in English football. They are the typical story of a northern english town deeply connected with community, and whose success has often represented much more for the city. This summer, after owner Steve Dale failed to pay an outstanding tax bill, the club went under, losing its status in the English football league.
This is the story of Bury, how they went under, and what the town is doing to rebuild.
Documentary commissioned by Copa90.
Directed by Rory Reames and Nick Manser
Produced by Ben Jacquin, Rory Reames and Nick Manser
Edited by Nick Manser
Animation and VFX by Aaron Lee
Photography by Martin Stembridge
