Whalley's Committed Local Partner
For 30 years, we've sponsored local sports, events, and causes—because strong communities matter.
Our Roots Run Deep
Three Decades of Community Leadership
Since 1994, Athertons has been more than an estate agent — we’ve played an important role in the community. Founded by John Atherton, a chartered surveyor and MRICS member, the company was built on the principle that local expertise and community involvement go hand in hand.
Over three decades, we've sponsored Whalley Cricket Club, which hosted the historic first Roses match between Lancashire and Yorkshire in 1867. We became lead sponsor of Whalley Golf Club, supported Dog Inn FC through multiple sponsorship periods - with John as a founder member in 2001 - and backed Blackburn Rugby Club on Ramsgreave Drive. We've been proud sponsors of Whalley Pickwick for over 25 years since its inception, supported the Hodder Valley Show for 25 years (which regularly attracts up to 3,000 visitors), and helped administer the Whalley Chamber of Trade.
John also serves as a Director of the Royal Lancashire Show and is the longstanding Chairman of Whalley Chamber of Trade, reflecting our deep commitment to the area's prosperity.
This isn't charity - it's investment in the places where our clients live and work. Strong communities attract strong property markets. And strong property markets are built on trust, expertise, and genuine local roots.
Where We Make a Difference
Athertons sponsors and supports eight key community organisations across sport, culture, and local business. Each partnership reflects our commitment to strengthening the Ribble Valley.
Whalley Cricket Club
Sponsor of Whalley Cricket Club, home to the historic first Roses match between Lancashire and Yorkshire in 1867.
Whalley Tennis Club
Annual tennis tournament held in memory of Neil Wetherburn at Whalley Tennis Club, honouring a valued member of the community.
Dog Inn FC
Long-time sponsor of Dog Inn FC. John Atherton was a founder member in 2001, and Simon Kerins has managed the club for 20 years.
Blackburn Rugby Club
Proud sponsor of Blackburn Rugby Club on Ramsgreave Drive, supporting rugby excellence in the region.
Whalley Pickwick
Proud sponsors of Whalley Pickwick for over 25 years since its inception, celebrating the festive spirit of the community.
Hodder Valley Show
Involved with the Hodder Valley Show for 25 years. The show regularly attracts up to 3,000 visitors and celebrates rural heritage.
Royal Lancashire Show
Proud sponsors of the Countryside Arena at the Royal Lancashire Show. John Atherton is a Director of the Show and committee member.
Why We Sponsor
Community Investment Matters
Strong Local Roots
For 30 years, Athertons has been part of Whalley's fabric. Sponsoring local clubs and events isn't charity—it's investment in the communities where our clients live and work.
Real Relationships
From John's role as founder of Dog Inn FC to Simon's 20 years managing the club, our team has genuine connections to local organisations. These aren't transactional partnerships.
Economic Strength
Strong communities attract strong property markets. When we support Whalley's sports clubs, cultural events, and business networks, we're strengthening the entire local economy.
John's Passion for Whalley
John Atherton founded Athertons in 1994 as a chartered surveyor with a vision to serve the Ribble Valley with expertise and integrity. His involvement extends far beyond property sales—he's a founder member of Dog Inn FC, a Director of the Royal Lancashire Show, and the longstanding Chairman of Whalley Chamber of Trade.
For John, community leadership and business success are inseparable. When Whalley thrives, so does Athertons. That philosophy has shaped everything we do, from the way we sponsor local clubs to how we advise clients on their most important financial decisions.
Get Involved in Whalley
Whether you're selling, buying, or simply want to know more about the Ribble Valley, Athertons is here to help. We're not just estate agents—we're your neighbours.
