Firstly, thank you for taking the time to read this update.

Many of you will be aware of the proposal to introduce an ANPR parking system in our club car park. Like many community sports clubs across the country, we face ongoing financial pressures and are continually looking for ways to secure the income needed to support and grow what we do.

When the proposal was originally brought forward, it was done with the best of intentions. It offered a potential source of much-needed revenue at a time when funding opportunities were limited, and those involved in exploring it did so with the club's best interests at heart.

As many of you also know, the club has recently undergone a change in leadership, with a new Chair now in place and a new Treasurer soon to officially take office. As a new team, together we felt it was important to take the time to fully understand the proposal from PPS, examine the detail carefully, and consider not only the financial implications but also the impact it could have on our members, supporters, volunteers, visitors, and the wider community that makes this club what it is.

Following that review that involved many new discussion points, the committee was given the opportunity to make a final decision. As the group responsible for leading and representing the club moving forward, it was essential that the committee had complete confidence in the path we chose and were able to defend it.

After careful consideration, the committee voted unanimously not to proceed with the installation of the ANPR parking system.

I have formally informed PPS of our decision, and I would like to thank them for their understanding and professionalism throughout the process.

This decision is the result of months of hard work, thoughtful discussion, and diligent review by many people. On behalf of the club, I would like to thank everyone who has contributed their time and effort since the proposal was first considered last year.

This is a significant decision. It means turning away from a potential income stream because we believe there is a better way forward. We are backing ourselves, our members, our volunteers, and our community to help generate the revenue we need while preserving the welcoming and inclusive environment that makes our club special.

And this is where you can help.

Become a Member
One of the simplest and most effective ways to support the club is by purchasing a membership. More information is HERE

We may have seen membership numbers rise through the parking scheme, but I believe we can achieve that growth naturally because this is a club people genuinely want to be part of.

We have a fantastic community, competitive bar prices, and a great range of beers that our clubhouse team has worked incredibly hard to improve over the summer. If you were at the Wadebridge pre-season game, you'll have seen the results for yourself.

Come and Enjoy Matchdays
Our pre-match lunches are being reorganised due to the delayed start to the season, but we're excited about what's ahead. With new caterers on board, we're confident they'll be better than ever. When they are advertised please grab them!

The Exec Committee's goal is simple: to get more people up to Tregorrick Park, enjoying great grassroots rugby, supporting the team, meeting friends, and having fun. Your membership, attendance at fixtures and joining us for lunch helps make that happen.

Sponsor the Club
There are still plenty of opportunities for individuals and businesses to get involved through sponsorship.

You may have missed the chance to get your name on this season's shirts, but there are many other ways to support the club, including:

• Pitch-side advertising boards to showcase your business.
• Match sponsorship packages, including up to 12 places at the pre-match lunch and a range of other benefits.
• Sponsorship of our stand, with naming rights for the season.
• Away coach sponsorship, including social media promotion and seats on the coach alongside players and coaches.
• Or simply bring us your ideas. If there's something you'd like to sponsor, we'd love to have that conversation.

To discuss sponsorship opportunities, please contact Shane at sponsorship@staustellrfc.co.uk.

Join the Fundraising Club Lottery
Another excellent way to support the club is by joining our Fundraising Club Lottery via this LINK.
Not only does it help provide valuable income for the club, but with weekly prizes and a monthly jackpot of up to £25,000, you might find yourself benefiting too.

Thank You

The ANPR proposal has now been concluded, and the committee has made its decision. We believe it is the right decision for our club, our members and our community.

Now we look forward.

Together, let's continue building a thriving, welcoming, successful St Austell RFC. Whether you become a member, sponsor part of the club, join the lottery, attend matches, or simply spread the word, every contribution makes a difference.

Thank you for your continued support.