History Made: Chorley FC Officially Crowned Guinness World Record Holders
Chorley FC are Guinness World Record holders!
THERE were smiles, cheers, celebrations and thousands of colourful socks flying through the air as Victory Park played host to one of the most remarkable days in Chorley Football Club's history.
On Sunday 19th July, the Magpies officially became Guinness World Record holders, successfully setting a brand-new record for the most rolled-up pairs of socks kicked into washing machines in one hour, with an incredible 5,956 successful kicks.
Working alongside principal event partner Currys, charity partner High Five Lancashire and Guinness World Records, Chorley FC transformed Victory Park into something far greater than a football stadium. It became a place where football, community and inclusion came together to create something truly unforgettable.
The challenge began with the opening kick from Harry Maden-Wilkinson, grandson of first-team manager Andy Preece, before more than 200 participants took their places across 21 washing machines to begin the hour-long attempt.
The 21 washing machines were no coincidence. They represented Trisomy 21 – the extra copy of chromosome 21 associated with Down syndrome – while the colourful rolled-up socks symbolised the international campaign that celebrates difference, promotes inclusion and encourages conversations around Down syndrome awareness.
Every successful kick also helped raise more than £5,000 for High Five Lancashire, supporting families of children with Down syndrome while helping raise greater awareness, understanding and inclusion across the local community.
Participants came from every corner of the Chorley community and beyond. Teams representing the Chorley FC Community Foundation, Chorley FC Under-13s and Under-14s, Chorley FC Girls Under-10s, Astley & Buckshaw, Chorley Wanderers, the Magpies Trust, High Five Lancashire, Currys stores from across the North West, the Chorley Select XI, alongside countless families, volunteers, local businesses and supporters all united with one common purpose.
If one moment summed up the afternoon, it came at Washing Machine 21.
Among those taking part were children with visual impairments, who successfully recorded 53 scores of their own. The number itself mattered little. What mattered was that every participant, regardless of age or ability, stood shoulder to shoulder with everyone else, proving this event wasn't about who could kick the most socks – it was about ensuring everyone had the opportunity to make history together.
The attempt was independently overseen by an experienced officiating team led by Ollie Langford, ensuring every successful kick met the strict Guinness World Records criteria before Official Adjudicator Pravin Patel confirmed Chorley Football Club's place in the record books.
Chorley FC Chairman Jamie Vermiglio said:
"Breaking a world record was never just about the number of socks we kicked into washing machines. It was about bringing people together. Seeing children, adults, families, community groups, football teams, volunteers and businesses all working side by side was incredibly special.
"This event showed exactly what Chorley Football Club stands for – inclusion, opportunity and community. Everyone, regardless of age or ability, had a chance to play their part and every single kick contributed to something bigger than themselves. Together we raised thousands of pounds for High Five Lancashire, shone a spotlight on Down syndrome awareness and created memories that will last a lifetime."
He added:
"I couldn't be prouder of everyone involved. This achievement belongs to every participant, every volunteer, every sponsor and every supporter who gave their time, energy and enthusiasm to make the day such a success. Thank you all for playing your part, supporting such a fantastic cause and helping create a day that will be remembered for years to come. Together, we made history."
The football club would like to place on record its sincere thanks to everyone who helped make the event possible.
Special thanks go to Currys, whose outstanding support and commitment helped bring the event to life – particularly Darren Kenworthy, General Manager of Currys Preston – as well as High Five Lancashire, Guinness World Records, Official Adjudicator Pravin Patel, the team of referees led by Ollie Langford, every volunteer, sponsor, participant and supporter who gave their time to create such a special occasion.
Football has an incredible ability to unite people, and on Sunday afternoon Victory Park proved exactly why.
Years from now, the official total of 5,956 will remain in the Guinness World Records archives.
But those who were there will remember something much greater.
Children laughing. Volunteers encouraging strangers. Families celebrating together. Football clubs becoming one team. A community united by one shared purpose.
On one unforgettable afternoon, Chorley Football Club didn't just make history. It showed exactly what football can do.
Images from the day, courtesy of David Airey, are over on Flickr - HERE
To relive the day by means of video, click the link to watch online - HERE
