Former West Ham United defenders James Collins and Anton Ferdinand took time out of their busy schedules to support St Edward’s Catholic Primary School’s Summer Fun Day in Upton Park.
The site of the school, next to the old Boleyn Ground, bears special significance to the pair, with the majority of Collins’ 214 appearances for the Claret and Blue Army, and all of Ferdinand’s 163, taking place while West Ham were based there.
As well as enjoying the opportunity to reflect on former glories, and get reacquainted with the area, the duo got involved in a variety of activities at the Fun Day, including judging a penalty shootout competition, posing for photos and signing autographs.
St Edward’s has long been part of West Ham’s history, with Bobby Moore having visited the school many times during his playing career, and the great man’s daughter Roberta helping to recreate a famous photo of her father and former students earlier this year.
And that sense of community and partnership between the Club and the school is still as important as ever according to Collins and Ferdinand, who both thoroughly enjoyed their day out back on Green Street.
Collins, who featured for the Hammers across two spells, between 2005-2009 and 2012-2018, said: “It’s been great to be part of the Fun Day.
“It was a bit strange for me because I’ve only been back once since the Club moved to London Stadium, but I have lots of fond memories of being in this area. To come back, still as a representative of the Club, has been amazing.
“I’ve really enjoyed the activities, giving out some goodies and chatting to the students who are all still so interested in West Ham. This school is a big part of the Club’s history, and it’s important we continue that legacy going forward.”
Ferdinand, who graduated through the Academy of Football ranks to make his senior debut in 2003, before departing five years later, added: “We know St Edward’s meant a great deal to Bobby Moore, so being able to attend and help out at their Fun Day means a lot to me personally.
“Even though the Boleyn Ground has gone now, I can still feel the weight of the history around the place, which makes it extra special to be back here. I used to park where the school’s playground is now!
“It’s important we go to events like this to support communities that have played big roles in the Club’s history. It’s been great fun, and I’m sure everyone has had a good day.”
