David James Advocates for Affordable Football Gear
"Football is a very expensive game now and times are tough for a lot of people," said former England goalkeeper David James.
The ex-Liverpool, Portsmouth, and Watford player visited Peterborough to promote two organisations dedicated to making football kits more affordable.
James co-founded Football Rebooted, a project that redistributes second-hand donated football boots, and serves as an ambassador for Goal2Grow, which sells donated football kits for £10 each.
"There are people who want to play football for fun, social, mental and physical benefits who can't access football because of the prohibitive cost," said James.
"To represent my country in the World Cup, the biggest football event in the calendar, it was an honour for me and fortunately, because I did that, it helps me promote football boots as well."
Goal2Grow and Community Engagement
Goal2Grow was established by Peterborough-based community interest company Up The Garden Bath in May last year. James, who grew up in Welwyn Garden City and also played for Manchester City and West Ham, became a project ambassador in March this year.
He participated in a FIFA World Cup 2026 celebration held in Peterborough city centre, an event organised by Up The Garden Bath with support from Peterborough City Council and Utilita Energy.
Kez Hayes Palmer, representing Up The Garden Bath, commented on the initiative's broader impact.
"This is about more than football.
This is about community, creativity, sustainability, and showing what is possible when people come together with heart and purpose."
Football Rebooted Project and Environmental Impact
Residing near Peterborough and currently working as a football pundit, James helped establish Football Rebooted in 2021. The project aims to assist families facing financial challenges by providing access to pre-owned football boots.
James noted that he, along with friends and family, have donated numerous boots to the cause.
"What we've realised is first of all on the environmental level, that a lot of football boots get put into landfill, which we need to avoid, and secondly, these boots are reusable," he explained.
"I think there's 800 boxes or donation spots we have now in the country."
Peterborough United also supported the World Cup celebration event, sending their mascot Peter Burrow to participate.
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