We have had four weekends of storms to contend with together with the additional rain during the week. We would like to thank the overwhelming majority of members for their understanding when we (and others) have cancelled due to the state of the grounds. A decision to cancel rugby is not taken lightly.

Regular pitch inspections have been carried out, leaving the final decision as late as possible in the hope that rugby can be played but balancing this with getting info out as soon as possible to members and visitors. We all want to play and it is frustrating when we have to cancel due to pitches being waterlogged and standing water on them. Thank you to the volunteers who have made those difficult decisions in the knowledge that someone will usually share an alternate view.

Credit to the groundsmen and volunteers who have worked tirelessly throughout the year to look after our pitches and allow us to play as much as we have done.

There have been many thousands of pounds invested on drainage, but not even the best drainage can cope with the amount of rainfall that we have had. There is more work to do in the future, but we are in a better position than many.

The bad weather also has a financial and social impact too. A month of lost revenue is something the club can ill afford. We are keen for rugby to be played but will only go ahead and play if it is safe to do so.

Thank you for your understanding that we are a members club, run by volunteers. We survive by the hard work and good will of our volunteers and if other members feel they can contribute to help improve that service please make yourselves known; you’d be most welcome.

Here’s hoping that the weather improves from now on!

Jonathan Stamp, Chairman
Mike Fletcher, Mini and Junior Chairman
Caroline Miller, Club Secretary