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The Kirby Estate | Community Spirit in Focus EURO Final 2024

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Ethan Parker‘s photographic series offers a heartfelt glimpse into the tight community of the Kirby Estate in Bermondsey, South East London, as residents gathered to watch England take on Spain in the final of the European Championships. Celebrated for its committed support of the England football team during major tournaments, the Kirby Estate is renowned for being transformed into a sea of St George’s flags and bunting, with balconies and terraces proudly adorned in patriotic decor.

Kirby Estate, Bemondsey, London. EURO final 2024, England versus Spain.
© Ethan Parker
Kirby Estate, Bemondsey, London. EURO final 2024, England versus Spain.
© Ethan Parker

However, Parker’s series captures more than just the colour, tension and excitement of the match day; it delves into the essence of community spirit and the diverse personalities that make up this unique enclave. His photographs are a poignant reflection of British society, showcasing the unity and camaraderie that football brings to the fore.

Kirby Estate, Bemondsey, London. EURO final 2024, England versus Spain.
© Ethan Parker
Kirby Estate, Bemondsey, London. EURO final 2024, England versus Spain.
© Ethan Parker
Kirby Estate, Bemondsey, London. EURO final 2024, England versus Spain.
© Ethan Parker
Kirby Estate, Bemondsey, London. EURO final 2024, England versus Spain.
© Ethan Parker
Kirby Estate, Bemondsey, London. EURO final 2024, England versus Spain.
© Ethan Parker
Kirby Estate, Bemondsey, London. EURO final 2024, England versus Spain.
© Ethan Parker

The pre-match atmosphere, as described by Parker, was electric. “The atmosphere pre-match was brilliant! It felt like there was mainly excitement, optimism, and liveliness with very little to no tension in the air,” he remarked. “The sense of community and positive energy of everyone gathering was likely why the atmosphere was as it was. Everyone just feeds off each other, giving the same energy.”

Kirby Estate, Bemondsey, London. EURO final 2024, England versus Spain.
England fans in Trafalgar Square. © Ethan Parker

Ethan’s shot from Trafalgar Square has been shortlisted in the Street Photography category for the British Photography Awards, 2024, vote here.

Kirby Estate, Bemondsey, London. EURO final 2024, England versus Spain.
© Ethan Parker
Kirby Estate, Bemondsey, London. EURO final 2024, England versus Spain.
© Ethan Parker

For many of his images in this series, Parker focuses on the children of the estate, their carefree joy juxtaposing the intense emotions of the adults engrossed in the game. Kids are seen happily playing together, their cheeky smiles lighting up the frame, with a ball or bike never far from sight. These candid moments highlight the innocence and enduring spirit of youth amidst the backdrop of a significant sporting event.

Kirby Estate, Bemondsey, London. EURO final 2024, England versus Spain.
© Ethan Parker
Kirby Estate, Bemondsey, London. EURO final 2024, England versus Spain.
© Ethan Parker
Kirby Estate, Bemondsey, London. EURO final 2024, England versus Spain.
© Ethan Parker
Kirby Estate, Bemondsey, London. EURO final 2024, England versus Spain.
© Ethan Parker
Kirby Estate, Bemondsey, London. EURO final 2024, England versus Spain.
© Ethan Parker

As the game progressed, Parker’s lens remained trained on the young ones left to entertain themselves while their parents and neighbours watched the match with bated breath. The contrast between the children’s playful abandon and the adults’ mounting tension is palpable in his work.

As you’d expect following a defeat in the final of a major tournament, the post-match atmosphere was somewhat different. Parker noted the swift change in mood: “Post match, the atmosphere felt very sombre and melancholy. People didn’t hang around much at all. Everyone was quite quick to pack up their foldable chairs, gathering their kids and returning back to their flats on the estate. It was a complete switch up to the mood at the start of the day.”

Despite the defeat, Parker’s series does not dwell on the disappointment. Instead, it celebrates the community’s togetherness and shared experiences. His photographs do not capture the final moments of the match or the immediate aftermath of the loss, yet they poignantly depict the collective spirit that defines the Kirby Estate. The images serve as a testament to the enduring bond among residents, united by their love for the game and for each other.

Kirby Estate, Bemondsey, London. EURO final 2024, England versus Spain.
© Ethan Parker
Kirby Estate, Bemondsey, London. EURO final 2024, England versus Spain.
© Ethan Parker
Kirby Estate, Bemondsey, London. EURO final 2024, England versus Spain.
© Ethan Parker

Ethan Parker’s photographic series is a compelling narrative of community, resilience, and the universal language of football. It is a tribute to the Kirby Estate’s unwavering support for England and a beautiful portrayal of the people who come together, year after year, to celebrate the sport they love.

You can get in touch with Ethan and check out some of his other work on Instagram or directly via his website.

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