Barry Fry and Andy Townsend return to the Midlands.
Two of the biggest names in Midlands footballing history, Barry Fry and Andy Townsend, will return to Birmingham this spring for An Evening With events hosted by Tom Ross at food and cultural hotspot Herbert’s Yard.
On Monday 17th March, one of English football’s most colourful characters, the former player, manager and chairman Barry Fry – now Director of Football at Peterborough United, joins broadcaster Tom Ross, to share anecdotes and revelations from his time at Birmingham City FC.
Under his stewardship, Blues won the second division title and the league cup. Subsequently, Fry is revered as one of the most memorable figures in the Club’s recent history.
This event is in support of BCFC supporter group Blues 4 All, originally set up to strengthen and deepen the connection between Birmingham City FC and the neighbouring South Asian community.
On Tuesday 18th March, former Republic of Ireland and Aston Villa FC midfielder, now Premier and Champions Leagues commentator Andy Townsend, joins Tom Ross for an unforgettable night of stories and behind the scenes chat.
One of the most charismatic players of his generation will explore on how he originally got into the game, his four seasons at Villa, playing in two World Cups, and the life of the pundit in the 21st century.
This event is in support of the Aston Villa Foundation, a registered charity that delivers the community and charity work of Aston Villa Football Club.
The events build on the success of evenings with Blues legends Paul Tait and Martin O’Connor, and Villa titans Brian Little and Ian Taylor, hosted by broadcaster Tom Ross, in November 2024.
The street food venue and cultural events space Herbert’s Yard, named after Herbert Austin, is the leading venue in South Birmingham, located in the historic former car manufacturing district of Longbridge.
Operated by multi-award-winning street food pioneers Digbeth Dining Club alongside Jewellery Quarter location Hockley Social Club, Herbert’s Yard offers a rich and varied programme featuring Closeup Comedy, quizzes, and more from Thursdays to Sundays.
Bobby Barnes, director of Herbert’s Yard, said, “As a key community venue in the heart of South Birmingham, we work with residents and visitors to present a strong cultural programme all year round.
“The feedback from our Birmingham City and Aston Villa events in November 2024 was overwhelmingly positive, and those who attended were keen for us to present further similar events.
“Securing names like Barry Fry and Andy Townsend underlines our commitment to delivering a high standard of entertainment for Longbridge and surrounding areas.
“We’re thrilled to offer world-class street food and an incredible selection of drinks alongside these two events in Spring 2025, and look forward to welcoming fans of both teams to our venue.”
Blues 4 All, led by father and son Micky and Bik Singh, has grown into a powerful force for positive change, helping to transform and extend the fanbase of Birmingham City FC’s Men and Women’s teams, by engaging with thousands of members from local churches, gurdwaras, mosques, mandirs, grassroots, and community organisations.
The group has been shortlisted three times at the prestigious National FSA Awards and won the Fans for Diversity Award in 2017, boosted attendance and involvement in the women’s game, particularly among local South Asian communities, and supported fans during the COVID-19 pandemic – presenting virtual watch parties, mental health-focused social events, a running club, and food parcel deliveries.
Over the last 30-years, Aston Villa’s community work has continued to cater to the needs of local residents, community members and fans, laying the important foundations for Aston Villa’s presence in the local community today.
The Aston Villa Foundation works with children, young people and young adults both within the immediate areas surrounding Villa Park and the wider Birmingham population, providing a holistic landscape of opportunities to support them on their life journey.
For tickets to An Evening with Barry Fry (Monday 17th March), and An Evening with Andy Townsend (Tuesday 18th March) visit Skiddle.