Matt Real awarded this year's Dick Birch scholarship

Matt Real has been awarded this year's Dick Birch scholarship.

Dick was an iconic member of the club who served as both 1st XV captain and club chairman. He was a formidable prop forward and also a Royal Marine who served in both the Falklands and the first Gulf War.

When Dick tragically died, his widow Kate set up a scholarship that is awarded each year to a player moving from colts to adult rugby. The fact that Matt is also a prop forward is very fitting and Matt is a great choice for this year's award. The photo shows club chairman Martin Chaldecott presenting the award after Matt played for the 1st XV on Saturday in their victory over Winchester in Hampshire Division 1.

As part of the award, Matt will have his subscription and match fees paid for the season.

Updated 12:40 - 30 Aug 2019 by Steve Benson