Two-Michelin-star chef Gareth Ward is taking over catering at Aberystwyth Town FC, a team in the Novira Cymru South division. His restaurant Ynyshir Restaurant and Rooms, located in Eglwys Fach about 12 miles from Aberystwyth, is Wales' only two-Michelin-star restaurant.
Partnership details
The menu at Ynyshir costs from £540 per person. Aber Town's Park Avenue has a capacity of 5,000, with 1,500 seats. Matchday tickets cost £5 for adults and £3 for concessions.
Ward said he was "incredibly excited" to partner with the club. "Football clubs should be at the heart of their communities, and I see a real opportunity to bring people together through food and unforgettable matchday experiences and corporate events."
Community focus
Co-owner of Ynyshir, Amelia Eiriksson, added: "Together, we're creating something that blends football, food and creativity in a way that's authentic to Aberystwyth. We hope supporters, partners and visitors will experience something truly unique every time they visit Park Avenue."
Supporters will get their first look at the partnership at the opening game against Treowen Stars on Saturday, August 8, where there will be a matchday pop-up available to all attendees.
Beyond matchdays
The partnership extends beyond catering, with exclusive events, collaborations and experiences planned throughout the season.
Aberystwyth Town's commercial director Gethin ap Dafydd said: "This partnership represents exactly the direction we're taking as a football club. Working alongside Gareth and Amelia allows us to offer something truly unique, while showcasing Aberystwyth as a destination both on and off the pitch. Football clubs today need to be more than ninety minutes on a Saturday afternoon."
He added: "We want Park Avenue to become a place where people come together to enjoy great football, incredible food and memorable experiences, and there is no better partner than Gareth and the Ynyshir team to help us achieve that vision."
First event
The first opportunity for supporters will be at the club's opening home fixture, where Ward and the Ynyshir team will host their first matchday pop-up as part of a new hospitality offering.
In January, Ward spoke out about Ynyshir's food hygiene rating; since February it has held a maximum five-star rating.
Aberystwyth Town v Treowen Stars kicks off at 2.30pm on Saturday, August 8.
