Chelmsford City Football Club, nicknamed “The Clarets,” is a non-league football club based in Chelmsford, Essex.
Established in 1938, they currently compete in the Vanarama National League South, which is part of the sixth tier of English football. The team calls Melbourne Community Stadium their home ground.
Chelmsford City FC, established in 1938 as a professional side, has a storied history marked by early successes and challenges. The club, originating in 1878 as an amateur team, moved to New Writtle Street in 1922. Under Billy Walker’s management, Chelmsford made an impressive FA Cup run in their inaugural season, reaching the fourth round by defeating Darlington and Southampton before losing to Birmingham City.
Post-World War II, under Arthur Rowe, Chelmsford flourished, winning the Southern League championship and League Cup in 1945/46, symbolizing a golden era. However, the club faced financial struggles in the 1950s, requiring public fundraising efforts to survive. They enjoyed sporadic successes in the following decades, including FA Cup appearances and Southern League titles in 1968 and 1972, but also experienced relegation and challenges such as failed stadium development plans.
The 1980s and 1990s were a period of fluctuating fortunes, with relegation battles, management changes, and the loss of their historic ground. The club was rejuvenated in the 2000s under new management, securing a return to higher league standings and a new home at Melbourne Community Stadium in 2006.