My destination this week was Hempstead lane to see the local derby with Stroud. I was very kindly invited by the chairman, Nig McMahan, to join the pre match function which was a sit down meal with a gathering of many past players, which for was pleasing to see John Bayliss and John Powell who i have both known for many years and have both been great servants to the League as well as some guests from Stroud which just happened to be Russ Hillier accompanied as always by Clive Lock.

With the weather being fine both sides were prepared to run the ball at one another and although the home side were up the slope first half they managed to go in at half time with a 13-0 advantage. Stroud came back in the second period to reduce the deficit to one score but in the final minutes the league score again to seal the game. One of the big differences between the two sides was the scrummage, where the League were dominant and didn't need to send for reinforcements as Kockers was waiting patiently in the wings if required. A fine game was had by young Kieron Raybould, as well as being the only line out jumper in operation and being involved in many collisions, he rounded off the day with a score to the delight of father Adey who was watching from the side lines.

I was very well looked after by the chairman, before and after the game, but i did notice that Matty Sysum still has difficulty in buying a round and i do have to say that the toilet facility's are now in working order.

This Sat I'm off to Cents who welcome Swindon and hope to have a few beers with me old mate Stan Fritchley and you never know, the treasurer Rob Pinkney may even "splash the cash" cheers Dave