What does Barrie Drewitt-Barlow’s recent acquisition of Maldon and Tiptree Football Club mean for the world of football? The answer lies in the upcoming ITV Sport series, Up The Jammers, which will follow Drewitt-Barlow and his husband Scott as they navigate the challenges of football ownership.
Drewitt-Barlow purchased the Essex-based club in a multi-million pound deal, marking a significant step into the football arena. The six-part series is set to air on ITV4 and ITVX in April 2026, showcasing their ambitious goal of elevating the team to the English Football League within four years.
Despite his lack of football knowledge, Drewitt-Barlow has entrusted the operational responsibilities to Scott, who will lead the team’s efforts. The series promises to provide an unfiltered look at the realities of football ownership, capturing both the triumphs and tribulations that come with it.
Produced by TwentySix03, the documentary aims to resonate with a broad audience, illustrating the transformative impact of the club’s takeover on the local community. Richard Botchway, ITV Sport Assistant Commissioner, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, “We are excited to bring this special fly on the wall documentary series covering the highs and lows of football ownership to a free-to-air audience on ITV.”
Executive Producers Antonia Hurford-Jones and Duncan Gray echoed this sentiment, highlighting the magical effect of the club’s transformation on its community. Drewitt-Barlow himself remarked, “We didn’t get into football to play it safe, we got into it to build something big, and ITV is the perfect platform to bring that story to life.”
As the series progresses, viewers will witness the challenges faced by Drewitt-Barlow and Scott in their quest for success, offering insights into the often tumultuous world of sports management.
With the first year of ownership documented, the series is poised to capture the attention of both football fans and those interested in the dynamics of sports ownership. Details remain unconfirmed regarding specific episodes and additional content, but anticipation is building as the premiere date approaches.
