The occasion of the last league game of the season found Buckingham Rugby Club to be a very busy place, indeed. Over 100 Vice Presidents enjoyed a formal lunch and after-lunch commentary from a top table that included dignitaries from both the local and rugby communities, followed by awards and presentations.

The club was privileged to have Andy Cosslett, Chairman of the English Rugby Football Union, make the primary address and then receive questions. Cosslett reported that rugby was one of the few sports in the UK where player participation was not on the decrease. He went on to praise grassroots clubs, like Buckingham, for all of the effort they put into providing sporting facilities for so many, particularly boys and girls of all ages. Buckingham Rugby Club continues to boast one of the largest youth sections in the County, which is mainly due to the hard work of so many volunteers.

Next to speak was Judith Anderson, Regional Fundraiser for the Teenage Cancer Trust. Judith was at the lunch to receive a cheque from the club for £1,000, part of the proceeds of the Christmas Charity Tournament. Unbeknown to those at the lunch, Judith was also there to present a certificate on behalf of the TCT to the Club in recognition of the fundraising efforts of the Colts Academy. Judith said that the revenues received totalled a staggering £22,807. The most money ever raised for the Teenage Cancer Trust from a single event.

Also acknowledging the fundraising efforts were Neale Baker, Deputy Chairman for Bucks County RFU and John Lockhart, County President. The latter presented Colts Academy player, and main instigator of the TCT fundraising campaign, Harry Fellingham with the County Chairman’s Cup for Junior teams, awarded for efforts in the spirit of rugby.

Finally, Buckingham Mayor, Cllr Jon Harvey received a cheque for £500 as a donation to the Mayor's Charity pot.

Having beaten Stow on the Wold 38-5 the club now finds themselves in a play-off against Frome.

From left to right...

Neale Baker - Deputy Chairman for Bucks County RFU
Judith Anderson - Teenage Cancer Trust, Regional Fundraiser.
Andy Cosslett - Chairman, English Rugby Football Union
Jon Harvey - Mayor of Buckingham
Harry Fellingham - Buckingham Colts Academy
John Lockhart - County President.
Simon Smith - Chairman, Buckingham Rugby Club