I thought you should be aware of my actions as your Chairman. I have had widespread support across our own rugby club to know that using CRFC’s membership of the RFU to vote for change is what the vast majority of our club members want me to do.

Please see below the communication that has been sent out to members of the RFU in support of the 11 proposed Resolutions to the RFU AGM 2025 (link HERE).

Whatever happens at the AGM, I know that I did the right thing for our sport by voting for change.

Regards

Paddy

Dear Fellow Member of the RFU

As we approach next week’s crucial AGM, I feel it’s important to set the record straight. I am the chairman of a small community rugby club and, as such, a proud member of the RFU. I am not a rebel, nor part of any so-called “rebel alliance.” I am simply someone who is passionate about our game and frustrated by the unfair characterisations of my efforts to propose a positive path forward for rugby in England.

As members of this membership-based organisation, we all have the right and indeed the responsibility to voice our opinions. I respect that you have yours, just as I ask you to respect mine.

I am deeply concerned by the current governance of our sport and have little confidence that the current leadership and senior management will bring about the improvements we need to benefit every player, club, and fan across England.

Attached, you will find a clear and concise guide outlining the governance changes proposed by the Whole Game Union, a coalition of like-minded rugby enthusiasts representing a wide cross-section of the English rugby community.

I will be voting next week, and I encourage you to do the same. Please take the time to read the attached brief; it is designed to equip you with all the facts and relevant information necessary to make an informed decision.

Ultimately, you must choose what you believe is right for our game. I know I will.

Yours in rugby

Paddy

P A McAlpine CBE

Chairman, Chichester Rugby Football Club