Club News

We can confirm that Burn will conclude their pre-season preparations with a home fixure against North 2 East opposition in the form of Old Crossleyans. The Halifax based side will visit Ramsgreave Drive on Saturday 6th September for a 3pm kick off. The Old 'Croc's finished just below mid table last season after some nervous moments towards the end of the season saw them almost dragged into the relegation dogfight.

Chairman of Rugby Gareth Dyer said 'We are delighted that Old Crossleyans will be able to face us as our final pre-season game. I've been hunting around for suitable oppostion over the last four weeks but hadn't managed to get the quality of opposition I was after. Old 'C's were due to play Cleckheaton on the 6th September but are now free to play us and playing an established Level 6 opponent will be invaluable the week before we begin our league campaign'.

Dyer proclaimed to be happy with the three games arranged prior to the start of the league campaign. 'We have two very good looking friendly fixtures either side of a competitive Lancashire Trophy game with Didsbury. The three games will give me and the coaches a decent opportunity to look at different players and combinations and bed in our approach for the league campaign. There is also a pre-season game for the 2nd/3rd XV against Clitheroe on Saturday 30th August to ensure everyone gets a run out before the league season starts for all three senior sides'.

Dyer was also able to confirm that a number of new players had been recruited for the coming season and that further players will be added to the squad before the opening league game at Broughton Park. 'I'm quietly happy with how the squad is coming together for the new season. We've added depth to the squad which was important. We'll make a full announcement on the shape of the squad once we've completed the paperwork and the players are signed, sealed and delivered'.

The club is delighted to announce that long serving player and committee man John Beeston together with wife Donna have had a baby boy. The new arrival was born on Wednesday 16th July and they have named him Harris. All are doing well and are obviously delighted with their new arrival. The club sends them its best wishes and who knows, perhaps another future Burn player in the making!!

During the off-season we will be hoping to report on any items of interest making news in North 2 West. The article will be updated frequently.

Altrincham Kersal - Have appointed former Fylde, Sale and Ireland back rower Dylan O'Grady as player/forwards coach for next season. AK fought off interest from West Park and Northwich for O'Grady's services. O'Grady left Fylde at the end of last season in attempt to further his own coaching career. He will be assistant to the veteran Wayne Morris who remains Head Coach. Ex-Burn and Waterloo back rower Dan Smith will captain the side in North 2 West this season following his decision to leave Waterloo. (Source: AKRFC Website/Private Communication)

Wilmslow - Have announced a monster £30,000 two year sponsorship deal with Lexus Stockport. The club is in the process of redeveloping its facilities and will be undertaking an extensive refurbishment.(Source: Wilmslow RFC Website)

Liverpool St. Helens - LSH have lost the services of Chris McRobert and Peter van Loo. McRobert is moving to live in Darlington, while van Loo is off to Newcastle University. However, coach Paul Woodward is already busy strengthening his ranks. He said: "It will be a shame to see Chris and Peter go but everyone else is staying and we're close to making some very exciting signings. One is a South African stand-off who has been playing for a good club in Johannesburg and has an impressive CV. His dad lives in Newton-le-Willows and we're lucky to have made contact with him." (Source Liverpool Echo). Fly Half and goalkicker Ashley Worsfold has left the club to re-join previous club Tyldesley (Source: Tyldesley RFC Website).

Leigh - Head Coach Dave Peet and Forwards Coach Sean Fletcher have both left the club to take up roles with Tyldseley RFC. The well known former Lancashire player Steve Gough has taken over on an interim basis whilst the club looks for a player-coach to take over the squad. (Source: Private Communication).

Rossendale - Word from the East of the county is that Dale have again looked overseas to strengthen their squad with three more South Africans likely to be joining the club over the summer. (Source: Private Communication)

Northwich- The 'Blacks' have a new head coach Kevin Greaves in charge. The 47yr old Runcorn based police constable was appointed last Tuesday following interviews and the completion of a coaching session. Kevin lives in Stretton with his wife and two children and in his playing days considered himself as a competent utility back. He has coached at Warrington, Liverpool St. Helens and for the last three seasons at West Park (St. Helens). Last season he worked with ex-Northwich coach Chris Chudleigh who highly recommends 'Greavsey' for the top job at Moss Farm.

Kevin will have the support of new club captain Rick Smith who commented: "I and the rest of the squad were really impressed with Kevin’s session and he appears to be more of a players' man than Paul Reid. The playing committee have got a good squad together and we want to hit the ground running come September.

The 'Blacks’ have made a number of new signings the most notable being Matt Bebbington from promoted Chester. Matt is a PE teacher at Wilmslow High School and can play at 9 or 10. At 26 he is in his prime and has come to Northwich to develop himself into a future player/coach. The club has also retained Aussie Stacey Hosking who is staying for a second season. He will be joined by at least two additional overseas signings which are in the process of being finalised (Source: Northwich RFC Website).

Broughton Park - Have lost influential Cheshire stand off/centre Tom Mapp who has taken up a job opportunity in the South. Influential flanker Pete McMahon will be missing for the first half of the season as he is travelling around the world. The club has recruited six new faces from players who have moved into the Manchester area. (Source: Broughton Park Website)

Rochdale - Dale have appointed a new captain in the shape of influential forward Mike Bradwell. He takes over from Lee Kiddie after three years in charge. Coach Mick Gould continues in the role. (Source: Rochdale Website)

If you have any information that you would like to add to the update then please contact the Club by e-mail marking it for the attention of Gareth Dyer.

In an effort to ask members to renew their subs early, the Club will again be holding full membership rates at £50 for the year with a bonus of £10 being credited to Club membership cards for use behind the bar if the subscription is renewed on OR BEFORE 31ST AUGUST 2008. There are various membership levels available so please consult the "Joining" section of the site for all the available options.

The Club had its busiest year ever last season with record numbers going through the excellent new clubhouse whilst attendances were also up massively on previous years. There is a feel-good factor about the place which the Club Committee want to preserve and build upon. Therefore if you can bring one new member into the Club for this season then please do so!! The more the merrier! The benefits of BRUFC membership are numerous but if you would like more details then please contact Membership Secretary Stuart Rouse on 07787 531236. Alternatively please download a form (see the "Form Dowloads" Section) and return this to the Club together with your payment. There are numerous ways to pay with new methods added since the end of last season. Cheques should be made payable to "BRUFC".

The full draw is:-

Billingham v Penrith
Blackburn v Rossendale
Gateshead v Pontefract
Ilkley v Sandal
Northwich v Altrincham Kersal
Old Crossleyans v Lymm
Rochdale v Carlisle
Wilmslow v Liverpool St.Helens

'Pemby' was busy climbing the three peaks trying to raise funds for the Alzeimers Society. Along with work colleagues they walked approximately 30 miles; visiting the three highest peaks in Yorkshire - Pen-y-Ghent (691m), Whernside (728m) and Ingleborough (723m) - in that order. The team climbed in excess of 5200 feet and finished in just over 11 hours. As Marc said afterwards 'I've blisters on my feet like dust-bin lids to prove it!'.

The Club Dinner managed to raise £88 towards the fund and Marc is busy collecting in more monies from generous sponsors. Marc would like to thank everyone who donated money to the fund and if there is anyone would still like to make a donation then please contact him on 07811 105056.

After enjoying a superb three course meal and having been entertained by the excellent soul singing of Lisa Lindley, the Club made a large number of presentations to the players, coaches, team managers and back room staff involved in last season's success.

Chairman of Rugby Gareth Dyer said "It was a really enjoyable evening and everyone seems to have enjoyed themselves. There has been lots of positive feedback and the players were all grateful for the praise they received. It was a shame that not all the players involved in last season's campaign could be there on the night but we will make sure they get their trophies during the coming weeks."

Dyer paid tribute to Lisa Lindley. "Lisa was excellent and has superb voice. We'd be very keen to ask her back to the Club at some point in the future."

For those who wanted to make a note of her details they are as follows:-
Lisa has been singing for 15 years, and been in various amateur shows, choirs as well as a number of solo performances with a wide repertoire of songs that can be adapted to any occasion. She is based in the Bolton area but travels across the North West to perform. She can be contacted by mobile on 07792 801949 or by e-mail on lisa456@live.co.uk.

The RFU is holding an open forum into the future of the game at all levels. All players and members are encouraged to take the time to post their views on the RFU website indicating how the game should be set up for future years.

The Governing Body is looking for opinions of clubs and their members from around the country on issues such as the league structure, the use of cup competitions and how the season should be structured in future. Those of you who follow the local game closely will be aware that the Miller Homes Leagues lobbyed the RFU to increase league sizes to 14 teams in order that clubs can ensure more regular fixtures rather than rely on cup competitions to fill in the missing weekends.

BRUFC has discussed as a club the implications and it is in favour of increasing the size of the leagues to 14 teams. The club also believes in the Lancashire Cup competitions but can understand the reluctance of clubs to commit to a National competition at Level 6 rugby.

The document can be found on the RFU website: rfu.com under 'Competition Survey - have your say' or follow this link - http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=iG3WqIuZR8xog7fEw2twmQ_3d_3d

Chairman of Rugby Gareth Dyer said "The review is being done out of necessity. The game cannot continue in its current format as clubs are unable to raise sufficient revenues to cover the costs involved in participating. The RFU would seem to be determined to ringfence the top of the professional game with both the Premiership and National One being 12 team competitions."

Dyer continued "My personal view is that it makes sense to do that. I would advocate a regional competition below National One with the current National Two, National 3 North & South being brought together to form three regional leagues on a South, Midland and Northern basis. These should be 16 team leagues with an overall play off to determine the champions of what would be effectively Level 3. Relegation would be retained. Below this 14 team regional leagues should then feed into them in very much the way they do now. The EDF Cups appear to be on their way out so a club like ours at Level 6 will be guarranteed 26 league fixtures together with some sort of Lancashire cup competitions. Flexibility is then there for the clubs in that there is room for rearrangements as well as friendly fixtures which would give clubs opportunities to give more youngsters the taste of 1st XV rugby away from the pressures of league rugby."

BRUFC are completing the document to register its views. Why don't you do the same? Here's the link again - http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=iG3WqIuZR8xog7fEw2twmQ_3d_3d

Dino has been studying for his RFU Level 2 coaching award and the Club is delighted to announce that the mercurial player/coach has passed with flying colours. During the course Dino has impressed a number of the course coaches with his appetite for, dedication to and, most of all, his technical knowledge of the game. This has led to him being approached to run a number of workshops with the RFU.

Chairman of Rugby Gareth Dyer said "We are delighted that Dino has passed his Level 2 coaching award. To have done so is no mean feat and the feedback he has had has been extremely positive. Dino has made some excellent contacts whilst on the course and he hopes to utilise these for the benefit of the Club. Dino is really passionate about the Club and has been instrumental in our recent success. He is very keen to develop himself as a coach and the Club is keen to back their coaches in pursuing their coaching badges. Dino wants to implement lots of new ideas into this season's training sessions and challenge the players to continue to improve."

Dyer continued "It's an important part of the Club's development that we have a bigger pool of qualified coaches. If anyone is keen to follow Dino's example then I would be delighted to speak to them about it."

I did it !!!

In sun shine, rain, wind & mist I walked 24.6 miles & climbed a total of 5,253 feet in 8 hours 50 mins……..I also drank a lot of Stella but can't remember how many….

So a big, big thank you to all for your generous donations in aid of Christies. With a number of pledges still to come in as a team we have raised to date £1,343.00, of which £410.00 was donated by Blackburn rugby club members & one drunk from Wigan RUFC…. thank you..

Bring on summer training….

Bully

Burn have been given a home draw in the 1st Round of the Lancashire Trophy. They will face Didsbury Toc H at Ramsgreave Drive on the weekend of 30/31st August. This is the play by date and teams must have played their ties by this date. Clubs that do not do this will be removed from the tournament.

The full draw is:-

Heaton Moor v Wigan
Aldwinians v Fleetwood
Vale of Lune v Ruskin Park
Blackburn v Didsbury TocH
Leigh v Widnes
Rochdale v Aspull
Rossendale v Tyldesley
Oldham v Burnage

Team Manager Richard Crayston said 'It's nice to get a home draw in the Trophy. The competition looks very strong this year and quite a few teams will fancy their chances of going all the way to the final. A lot will depend on who can turn home draws into wins and of course who can stop Leigh who have had a monopoly on the trophy for the last three years!!'

The main rule changes to be implemented for next season are:-

Law 6 - Match Officials
Assistant referees are able to assist the referee in any way that the referee requires.

Law 17 - Maul
Remove reference to head and shoulders not being lower than hips.
Players are able to defend a maul by pulling it down.

Law 19 - Touch and Lineout
If a team puts the ball back into its own 22 and the ball is subsequently kicked directly into touch, there is no gain in ground.
A quick throw in may be thrown in straight or towards the throwing team’s own goal line.
There is no restriction on the number of players from either team who can participate in the lineout.
The receiver at the lineout must be 2 metres away from the lineout.
The player who is in opposition to the player throwing in the ball must stand in the area between the 5-metre line and the touch line but must be 2 metres away from the 5-metre line.
Lineout players may pre-grip a jumper before the ball is thrown in.
The lifting of lineout players is permitted but not before the ball has left the thrower's hands.

Law 20 - Scrum
Introduction of an offside line 5 metres behind the hindmost feet of the scrum.
Identification of scrum half offside lines.

Law 22 – Corner Posts
The corner posts are no longer considered to be touch-in-goal except when the ball is grounded against the post.

Further detailed information can be found on the IRB website: http://www.irb.com/ELVs/ together with video clips and detailed descriptions.

Application forms will be sent to current members with their renewal invoices, are available from the Club or may be printed from this site's "Form Downloads" page.

Please send your applications with payment in full to the Club for the attention of The Secretary. They will be dealt with on a strictly "first come, first served" basis to allow all eligible members an equal chance of ticket allocation subject to the rules as detailed on the form.

BRUFC have confirmed the details of their first pre-season friendly. They will travel to Powderhouse Lane to face Vale of Lune on Saturday 23rd August with a 3pm kick off. This is subject to the teams not being drawn to face one another in the 1st round of the Lancashire Trophy with the 1st round ties scheduled to be played on Saturday 6th September.

Team Manager Richard Crayston said 'Vale will provide a good opposition and this fixture will be of benefit to both sides. We swapped places with each other at the end of last season but Vale had a strong second half to their North 2 West season and almost beat the drop. They beat a number of the stronger teams during the season and are determined to bounce straight back to North 2. They will be a month further into their pre-season by the time we meet but this gives the squad their first selection target ahead of the start of the season'.

The club is hoping to confirm a second friendly in the next few days. The draw for the Lancashire Trophy will be made on Wednesday 25th June following a Lancashire committee meeting.

The annual pre-season players meeting will be held in the clubhouse on Thursday 10th July with a prompt 7pm start. All players who want to be considered for 1st and 2nd XV selection for next season should make every effort to attend this meeting.

All players are welcome from Colts age to veteran status. All returning, existing and new players are very welcome to attend.

Chairman of Rugby Gareth Dyer said "Having discussed the format with the coaches it was felt that a later start this year would be more beneficial to the squad as a whole. The main factors that were considered was that we didn't finish our season until the middle of May by the time the tour had taken place and with league games not starting until the middle of September we wanted to ensure all players involved last season were given a significant break period in order to recharge the batteries."

Turning to the pre-season friendlies Dyer continued "We have identified the two teams we would like to face in pre-season and are now hoping to confirm those arrangements accordingly. Once they have been confirmed we will publish the information on the website."

At the annual county awards dinner at Preston Grasshoppers on Friday, the Club picked up two awards.

Jordan Pearson was named as Lancashire Under 20's Player of the Season after superbly leading the side to four wins in their five county championship matches. In addition the Club picked up an award for reaching the final of the Lancashire Trophy but missed out on the Junior Club of the Year Award which went to Leigh.

The format for the evening is as follows:-

- Guests expected to arrive from 7.15 - 7.45 for a canapés and drinks reception
- Guests will be seated according to plan and a three course meal with coffee will be served
- The Club will undertake a presentation ceremony
- A soul singer will be in attendance to entertain during the meal
- Following the completion of the meal and formalities, a DJ will then keep everyone dancing till close (bar till 1 a.m.).

The dress code for the evening is for smart/formal wear. Gentlemen are expected to wear shirt, tie and jacket with ladies wearing cocktail dresses or equivalent. The cost for the evening is £25 per person or £40 for couples. Tables of 10 are available but will be charged according to those in attendance.

This is our opportunity to commemorate what has been an excellent season of achievement. I hope that interest will be high with people wanting to attend. I encourage you to bring partners and family to mark what will hopefully be a fitting tribute to the players hard work throughout the season.

Places are limited to 120. To this end I have given the players involved during the season a priority opportunity to reserve places before tickets are offered on a more general basis. Therefore players will need to confirm their attendance, the number of required tickets and the names of those attending by no later than Wednesday 18th June. All other parties wishing to attend can state their interest and will be allocated places once the number of players tickets sold is known. Places will be allocated on a strictly first come first served basis.

To reserve your tickets please contact Chairman of Rugby Gareth Dyer. He can be contacted on 07814 959533. Answerphone messages will be acted upon.

We look forward to (hopefully) seeing you all on 4th July.

Regards Gareth (Pike) Dyer

Unfortunately a large number of members were unable to attend on the orignal date because to a clash of events and due to the number of requests we have decided to re-schedule the date. The following day sees the first home league game of the season when the 1st XV take on Altrincham Kersal at Ramsgreave Drive.

The Summer Ball provides a full evening of entertainment including an excellent full course meal supplied by Northcote along with music, dancing, raffles and auctions and much much more. This is always a popular event and one that does much to support the Club.

We are now taking reservations for the ball and a booking form is available from the Club via e-mail. In the first instance please telephone Kirsty Holroyd from Northcote at the Rovers on her direct number: 01254 222252 or email her at: Kirsty@northcoteattherovers.com.

Tickets are £50 per head for what is an excellent evening's entertainment. Northcote host the evening exceptionally well and this will be a great opportunity for an early season get together for all Club Members and supporters.

If you have any questions then please ring Kirsty to discuss. We look forward to seeing you on the night.

Team Manager Richard Crayston remarked "They have been our lucky charm. Since they got involved with the team we have really turned the corner and last season's promotion was the icing on the cake. We are delighted that James Dewhurst & Sons have continued to sponsor the side. The continuity of their support is a real benefit to the team and we hope that they continue to be proud of being involved with what has been a very successful side during their sponsorship."

Chairman of Rugby Gareth Dyer said "We will be looking to build on the 2nd XV performance from last season and work hard to improve all aspects of the teams preparation. To that end the 1st and 2nd XV will form the senior squad for the club and will participate in the same pre-season routines and pre-season matches. We are also considering whether to have a dedicated 2nd XV pre-season friendly on 30th August, the same day the 1st XV are pencilled in to play their second pre-season game. This shows that we are focused on developing our playing strength and I'm very keen that we have real strength in depth so that we have a strong senior squad to carry us through the season."

The 3rd XV fixtures will be added to the site shortly.

The momentum had certainly been growing from the previous season when a run of 14 wins from our last 15 league games gave us a play off final against old foes Leigh. I think it was fair to say that we had run out of steam by the time of the play off but nevertheless the previous campaign had given the Club a belief that better times were around the corner.

With a clear set of goals identified for the start of the season, some decent addditions to the playing squad and a focused plan of where we needed to improve we were quickly out of the blocks.

Sixteen straight wins in the league is no mean achievement with highlights being two closely contested contests with neighbours (and ultimately runners up) Rossendale, an injury time 'get out of jail' win at Wigton and a demolishing of Fleetwood at fortress Ramagreave where the first 40 minutes produced 47 unanswered points. The only defeat came in the 6th Round of the EDF Senior Vase away at Horden. With minds perhaps drifting to quarter finals and Twickenham (rumour has it that Sutton Coldfield, who were to face the winners of the tie in the quarters, had already booked a hotel in Blackburn anticipating an away victory in the North East) the away side are still in a state of disbelief that they were 21-0 down at half time in the tie. Perhaps a fairer reflection on the balance of play would have been 25-25 but despite a second half comeback of Lazarus proportions, Burn crashed out by 26-22 in an absolute classic.

Not to be derailed, the league was secured with a hard earned point at De la Salle which, as everyone will testify, is not the easiest of places to go. With the league in the bag the focus switched to the Lancashire Trophy and, after some impressive wins over De la Salle and Aldwinians, there was a chance to put the record straight against a very determined Leigh side. The cup was cruelly denied to the boys from Ramsgreave as Leigh scored a late try to deprive us of a unique double. However the performance has given the Club a boost as we head to North 2 West.

Next season is a big one for BRUFC. With momentum established over the last two seasons and a developing style and playing squad it is essential the side hits the ground running come September. There is much work to do at the Club and I would appeal to all members and supporters to give as much time as they can to helping around the Club and continuing to spread the profile both in the game itself and to the Blackburn area.

If you want to help then I'm always willing to speak to interested parties. I look forward to your continued support as we move towards next season.

Regards

Gareth Dyer
Chairman of Rugby
BRUFC

1st XV Players' Player of the Year - Alistair Reay
Runners Up: Damian Miller, Luke Copping and Nick Barnes
Club Colours: Paul Millea, Alistair Reay, Luke Copping, Ferdie Naude, Matt Pickles, Richard Maudsley
Clubman of the Year: Sarah McGovern
2nd XV Players' Player of the Year: Barclay Roberts
2nd XV Young Player of the Year: Marc Pemberton
2nd XV Top Try Scorer: Nathan Peel
3rd XV Player of the Year: George Pugh
Colts XV Player of the Year: Liam Oldham

Chairman of Rugby Gareth Dyer said in his address to the 100+ attendees that it has been a season to remember for the Club as a whole. "Aside from the 1st XV promotion and run to the Lancashire Trophy final we have had a strong season across the board. The 2nd XV claimed the highest finish since the inception of the Miller Homes leagues, the 3rd XV improved their league position from the previous season whilst it has been great to have a Junior Colts XV this year. The fact that they reached the Lancashire Shield final was a great achievement and we look forward to them building upon this season. The Club is in decent shape and having got back to Level 6 rugby it was now time to press on to ensure the hard work so far can be the platform for further success."

In the first round of games they travel to last season's third placed finishers Broughton Park on Saturday 13th September. They have a second away trip the following week when they face Liverpool St. Helens who were relegated from North One. They then face another of the relegated sides when Altrincham Kersal visit Ramsgreave Drive on the 27th September for the first home league game of the season before another away fixture on 4th October when they travel to Wirral to face New Brighton.

Chairman of Rugby Gareth Dyer said "I find it a little odd that we are the only team with back-to-back away fixtures in the first fortnight. Considering it's an even number of teams in the league I wouldn't have thought it impossible for all teams to have alternate home and away fixtures."

Turning to the campaign as a whole Dyer was in positive mood. "It's a difficult start in that we face three away trips in the first four games against teams who will be hoping to do well next season. However this is what getting promoted is all about. We'll be up for the challenge and this will give us a clear focus over the summer." The full fixture list will be added to the website shortly.

Further to our previous posting, we can confirm that Penrith have indicated that they will move across to North 2 East for the coming season. This therefore confirms the 12 teams in N2W as previously indicated. The fixture list will now be made available in the coming weeks. We will of course provide details of the fixtures once received.

Nicola has plenty of experience as a sports therapist having graduated from the University of Teeside and having spent time with Coventry City FC where she gained lots of tricks of the trade in treating professional sportsmen. She works full time in the family business which is a sports theraphy clinic based in Clitheroe.

Chairman of Rugby Gareth Dyer said "We are really pleased that Nicola has agreed to take on the role. She has all the credentials we are looking for and the fact that she already knows the Club, the squad and what's required from the role meant it was an easy decision once she stated her interest. Rumours that because she is an avid Preston North End like the chairman, she was fast tracked into the role are totally untrue. After all we are still letting some Burnley fans into the club!!"

Nicola is away travelling through the summer and returns to the area in August. Over the summer months, Nicola's predecessor Sarah McGovern has offered to cover the role whilst the hand over of duties goes through.

Penrith were promoted from North 2 East to North One some two seasons ago and it was assumed that they would return there following their relegation. It would seem to make sense given that they would face other Cumbrian opposition and would face shorter trips to Northumberland and Durham where a number of the teams in N2E are based.

Thus the RFU Competitions Committee North are now faced with 13 teams trying to compete in a 12 team league. Under their rules they have now written to all 13 clubs asking if they would like to volunteer to move across to the eastern section. If no volunteers are forthcoming then they will be faced with working out which of the 13 sides has the least travelling to do should they be moved to N2E. To further complicate matters Rochdale, who are the most easterly based team amongst the 13 sides, have already participated for one season in N2E and, as we understand it, may not be forced to move again. This may force the spotlight onto our neighbours Rossendale who themselves have mentioned the possibility of a transfer since they gained promotion through the play off. This would deprive both sides of a local derby and further good revenues from what has been two seasons of closely contested battles.

We are now into the consultation process where any team wishing to volunteer must make itself known. This has delayed the release of next seasons fixtures for both N2W and N2E whilst the issue is resolved. We await with interest any developments in this matter.

As always, the Miller Homes Cup Committee is quick off the mark and has already made the Halbro Cup draws for 2008/09. In the Halbro Cup, the 2nd XV have been given a tough assignment away at Preston Grasshoppers 2nd's whilst the 3rd XV have a home draw in the Halbro Shield when they face Oldham 3rd. The games will be played on Saturday 18th October.

The season may only just have finished but already there are a number of news stories floating around for next season. Here is a brief round up:-

De La Salle have found themselves in front of yet another disciplinary committee following a number of incidents in their game against Didsbury Toc H at the end of last season. Four Didsbury players required hospital treatment following the game and a complaint was raised. Following the RFUNCC meeting, DLS were given the following sanctions:-

- The club has been suspended from playing for three seasons with the ban itself suspended for two years.
- The club has been immediately relegated into North Lancashire Division 1 and will start the season with a 12 point penalty.
- The club has been suspended from competing in any Lancashire RFU cup competition for three years.
- The club has been given one final warning about its future conduct with a next 'strike - you're out' condition.

Tyldesley, Vale of Lune, Aldwinians, Heaton Moor, Keswick and Burnley have all been placed in a much changed North Lancashire and Cumbria league for next season. The only remaining incumbents from this season are Fleetwood, Oldham, Wigton, Workington, Upper Eden and Kirkby Lonsdale. Didsbury and De La Salle both move into North Lancashire Division One with St. Benedicts returning to the Cumbrian league.

There have been strong moves to move the league structure to 14 team leagues for the start of next season. The Miller Homes Leagues have been trying to push through change for this year but were thwarted by the RFU who held firm for 12 team leagues for 2008/09. If the 14 team league is adopted for next year then this will make the coming season particularly competitive as teams strive for much altered league places for 2009/10.

Tarleton and Hutton are both joining the league structure this season and are likely to be placed in North Lancashire Division 2. This should make for an interesting derby!! Meanwhile, Thornton Cleveleys have moved from the RFU competition to Miller Homes Division 2 in order to gain more regular fixtures throughout the season.

We are saddened to hear of the death of Cindy Bleasdale, mother of 1st XV captain Paul. Cindy had retired to France with husband Dave two years ago but passed away in hospital on Thursday evening. Our thoughts are with Paul and his family at this difficult time. The funeral will be held in France during the coming week.

Many thanks to all those Club members who have sponsored me or pledged to do so, for the 3 Peaks Challenge, which I plan to complete on the 14th June 08, with a team of three colleagues from BT.

The team & myself are raising monies for Christie's as a work colleague has recently gone through a 2nd course of team at Christie's with positive results.

Through the generosity of Club members & one drunk Wigan supporter, sponsorship totalling £258 was raised at the Halbro Cup Finals Day, an excellent result & a big thanks to all those that have donated.

If anybody would like to support the excellent work being done at Christies and make a contribution then please access our web page and make a donation:

http://www.justgiving.com/bobspetproject

Alternatively give me a call (07850 784543) or drop me an email at mark.bullen@bt.com

Once again, thanks to all those that have already agreed to sponsored me.

Regards
Mark Bullen.

In a further statement, it appears that Hartpury will be able to defend their trophy next season as their league placing will allow them to qualify for entrance to the Senior Vase competition. Perhaps a re-think from the RFU is required?? After all, Hartpury College had already won the BUSA Championship for University sides when they defeated Loughborough at Twickenham in April. Their participation only takes away the possibility of amateur clubs from enjoying a day out in the final in the spirit in which the tournament is meant. Next season could be the last for the EDF competitions so it seems sensible to restrict entrance to those clubs who qualify on their purely amateur basis.

In a day backed up with wonderful weather, a large and positive crowd and well organised effort by the Burn faithful, the four finals saw some superb rugby in what was a great advertisement for the Miller Homes Leagues.

The results were:-

Halbro Plate:
Glossop 3rds 18-10 Wigan 4th
Halbro Shield:
Bolton 3rd 26-17 Heaton Moor 2nd
Halbro Trophy:
Fylde 3rd 18-7 Warrington 2nd
Halbro Cup:
Manchester 2nd 47-0 Preston Grasshoppers 3rd

The Club wishes to thank all the players and Club Officials who helped make the day such a success as well as all the supporters and Burn members who attended to make such a good atmosphere for everyone involved.

Chairman of Rugby Gareth Dyer said "We are very keen to increase the intensity of our pre-season preparations. We will carefully be selecting our pre-season opposition so that we can ensure a strong start to our season."

Dyer was also mindful of ensuring the Burn squad had a good break after their exertions in what has been a succesful season. "With the Lancashire Trophy Final being played on 5th May and the Club Tour to Spain in the middle of May, it's vital that we give everyone enough of a break in which to rest and re-charge the batteries whilst making sure we have adequate preparation time for the new season. The coaching staff will be discussing our summer programme once we have completed the season and we will release details in due course."

The final of the Lancashire Trophy will be played between Blackburn and Leigh at Preston Grasshoppers on Monday 5th May. The game kicks off at 3.30pm following the finals of the Ladies Lancashire Cup and Lancashire Plate.

This will be the second season running where the teams will face each other in their final game with plenty at stake. Last season it was in the Level 7 promotion play off as Leigh deservedly won promotion with a comprehensive 40-15 victory.

Leigh will go into the game as favourites. The team has won the trophy for the last two years and is seeking a hat-trick of trophy successes. The side finished comfortably in mid-table in their first season in North 2 West after a sticky start saw them fail to win a game for the first couple of months. They have retained many of the players who steered them to promotion last term as well as adding some new faces to the squad. They had a tough start in the trophy with a hard fought 17-10 win over Rochdale in Round 1 followed by a comfortable 50-19 over Didsbury in the second round. In the semi-final they overcame local rivals Wigan with a 13-25 win which was as comfortable as the scoreline suggests.

Burn have enjoyed a superb season having secured the North Lancashire/Cumbria league title to join their final opponents in North 2 West next season. The side enjoyed an unbeaten run from September to February before they tasted defeat in a narrow EDF Senior Vase encounter with Horden. The 6th round defeat left them an agonizing three games short of a fairytale Twickenham appearence. The team recovered its composure to ensure the league was secured meaning a final day defeat at Fleetwood was purely academic. In the Trophy Burn have enjoyed an almost 'epic' run to the final. They won their first round tie away at Aspull back at the end of August with a 13-20 win that was much more comfortable than the scoreline suggests. They then had to wait till the start of April for the 2nd Round tie with De La Salle. Burn were impressive on the day and won out handsome winners by 37-8 at Ramsgreave Drive. The semi-final allowed them to face Level 6 opposition in the form of already relegated Aldwinians and despite a battle throughut the 80 minutes, Burn always had the extra gears to win the game 22-16.

Chairman of Rugby Gareth Dyer predicts an interesting encounter at Preston on Monday. 'Leigh are obviously favourites and we are well aware of what they are capable of. The defeat at the end of last season showed that we had a lot of work to do and the game on Monday will show us if we have managed to close the gap at all'.

Dyer was fulsome in his praise for the Leigh club. 'They are a well run, well organised club who are progressing strongly in the right direction. They run 4 senior sides every Saturday as well as having a very strong mini-junior set up. Their 2nd XV has just won promotion to the Bateman Premier League of the Miller Homes competition whilst their haul of silverware over the last few years has been superb. They possess many of the attributes I would like to bring to Burn, in that they have a strong senior set up backed up with a great youth development policy. They are in a tough area for competition when you consider the Wigan and Aspull clubs are on their doorstep never mind the large numbers playing rugby league in the town and surrounding areas. It gives us the belief that we can build something equally as strong at Burn and they are a club who I respect totally'.

The schedule of the days events is as follows:-

10:00 Gates open for players and spectators to enter the ground. The Clubhouse will be opened at this point as will the outdoor catering facilities.

12:00 The plate and shield games will kick off simultaneously. The Plate final between Wigan and Glossop will be played on Pitch B whilst the Shield final between Heaton Moor and Bolton will be played on the main pitch, Pitch A.

14:00 The Trophy Final between Fylde and Warrington will kick off on the main pitch.

16:00 The Cup Final between Preston Grasshoppers and Manchester will kick off on the main pitch.

The medal presentations will be held on the main pitch straight after the conclusion of the games.

BRUFC will be providing plenty of catering facilities in the form of a beer tent (selling cold cans of bitter and lager as well as soft drinks and confectionary), barbeque (providing the usual burgers and hot dogs as well as beer), an ice-cream van as well as further bar facilities within the Clubhouse.

In addition to the above there will also be raffles and scratch cards along with the outdoor Halbro van offering a range of the sponsor's products.

Admission on the day is strictly by program and the cost will be £5 per person with under 16's getting in free. The Club car park will be available as well as overflow parking at the local Pleckgate School. We look forward to entertaining you at Ramsgreave Drive this Saturday!!

Following Burn's progress to the Lancashire Trophy Final on the 5th May, the club will be running a supporters' bus to and from the game at Preston Grasshoppers RFC.

The trophy final is due to kick off at 3.30 p.m. following the completion of the Ladies' Lancashire Cup Final between Vale of Lune and Ormskirk (kick off 12pm) and the Lancashire Plate Final between the winners of Bolton and Eccles and already confirmed finalists Heaton Moor (kick off 1.45pm).

The supporters' bus will leave Ramsgreave Drive at around 2pm and will return from Preston at around 6.30 p.m. Places are strictly on a first come, first served basis. The supporters coach will be only able to carry 35 persons. Providing we can fill this, the cost per person will be reduced from £10 to £7.50 for a return journey. Why not take advantage of the coach for you and the family and ensure a strong turnout to support the boys as they go for a unique league and cup double.

To reserve your place please contact the Club on 01254 247669 and speak to either Phil Isherwood or Esther Holden. Alternatively you can call Chairman of Rugby Gareth Dyer on 07814 959533 to reserve your place(s).

North Lancashire/Cumbria League
De la Salle 5-23 Wigton

Level 7 Play Off
Rossendale 20-16 Burnage

Level 6 Play Off
Durham City 13-18 Stockport

Lancashire Trophy Semi Finals
Blackburn 22-16 Aldwinians
Wigan 13-25 Leigh

Stockport's win in the North East sees them promoted to North 1 meaning that both Burn and play-off victors Rossendale are assured of a place in North 2 West next season. There remain two outstanding fixtures in the North Lancashire/Cumbria league as Rossendale face Didsbury at Marl Pits whilst Wigton travel to St. Benedict's. The Didsbury game could still have a bearing on the relegation issues and thus must be played despite Dale having already been promoted.

Promoted to North Lancashire/Cumbria next season are neighbours Burnley who triumphed at Netherall by a convincing 0-20 score in the Level 8 play-off game. This rounded off an excellent season for the East Lancashire clubs with Burn, Rossendale and Burnley all securing promotion to higher leagues.

Chairman of Rugby Gareth Dyer paid tribute to the great service Sarah has given the Club. "Sarah has been with us for a number of seasons and has contributed greatly to the Club. She has taken on an onerous workload in trying to keep the Burn squad fit and considering that we have never had a particularly large squad, she has worked wonders in maintaining a fit and healthy team. She is massively respected by everyone at the Club but it is quite understandable that after so many years she wants to get her Saturdays back!!".

The Club will be making a fitting tribute to Sarah in the Clubhouse after the game.

Dyer continued that the outgoing physio had helped find a suitable replacement. "We have spoken to someone who is keen to take on the role and we're keen for them to become the new BRUFC phsyio. We are just thrashing out the details with them and we'll make an announcement on the appointment as soon as possible."

1st Prize (£50) - Nick Westhead
2nd Prize (£15) - El Presidenté Dave Morris
3rd Prize (a nice bottle if present) - "Smiling" Clive Thompson (Not present so you didn't get it - 'bout time you showed yourself Clive!!)

The next draw will take place in the Clubhouse in September at the first home league game for the 1st XV.

The current proposal, due to an increased take-up of numbers, is to expand to a "200 Club" with the consequential increase in prize value and numbers of draws in a season.

Get in with a chance! Download your "100 Club" application from this site or contact the Club for a Standing Order mandate. It only effectively costs less than a bar of chocolate a week!

The results from the weekends fixtures in the North Lancashire/Cumbria league were:-

Didsbury TocH 10-17 Oldham
Fleetwood 16-12 Blackburn
Kirkby Lonsdale 12-18 De la Salle
St. Benedict's 13-36 Rossendale
Upper Eden 20-28 Workington

Wins for Oldham and Fleetwood would have appeared to consign St.Benedict's, De la Salle and Didsbury to the drop if it is three sides to be relegated. Workington have secured third place in their first season back at this level.

The outstanding fixture to be played this coming weekend are:-

De La Salle v Wigton

It's a big weekend at Marl Pits where Rossendale meet Burnage in the promotion play off to join Blackburn and Wilmslow in North 2 West. Good luck to both sides in what as we know is a big day.

The two remaining league fixtures in the North Lancashire/Cumbria league will be played on Saturday 3rd May when Rossendale host Didsbury TocH and St. Benedicts face Cumbrian rivals Wigton.

This weekend sees the semi-finals in the Lancashire Trophy with Burn facing Aldwinians at Ramsgreave Drive whilst defending champions Leigh face a local derby at neighbours Wigan.

Following the completion of league fixtures in the leagues above North Lancashire/Cumbria we now have a clearer idea of whom we will be facing next season.

In North 1 the three relegated teams are Liverpool St. Helens, Altrincham Kersal and Penrith. LSH and Kersal will both drop into North 2 West with Penrith moving into North 2 East. Champions of N2W are Chester who go to North 1 where they will be joined by the winners of the play off game between Stockport and Durham City. City will have the crucial home advantage after securing two more league points than Port during the season.

In the relegation places, Vale of Lune are consigned to North Lancashire/Cumbria after their defeat at Sandbach. Northwich won at Leigh to secure their status. Vale of Lune drop down with Winnington Park and Tyldesley.

Wilmslow are promoted with Blackburn as winners of South Lancashire/Cheshire and North Lancashire/Cumbria respectively. Rossendale will face Burnage in the play off for promotion with Dale likely to have home advantage.

So how do things look at this stage. We know for definite that the following will be in N2W next season:

Altrincham Kersal, Blackburn, Broughton Park, Leigh, Liverpool St. Helens, Lymm, New Brighton, Northwich, Rochdale, Rossendale/Burnage, Sandbach, Wilmslow.

Stockport would also be in N2W if they were to fail in their play off. That would give 13 teams in the league meaning that one team would have to undertake a level transfer to North 2 East. In terms of simple geographics this would mean Rochdale would have to transfer but as the club has already undertaken one season in N2E then under the rules they may not be forced to transfer. That would then seem to put Stockport, Rossendale or Burnage as next in line but no doubt things will get complicated before we get a final decision. Lets just hope Stockport win the play off to make things straightforward!!

Blackburn 28 - 8 Upper Eden
De la Salle P-P Wigton
Oldham 59 - 21 St. Benedict's
Rossendale 26 - 0 Kirkby Lonsdale
Workington 43 - 10 Didsbury TocH

Rossendale have re-scheduled their postponed league game with Didsbury TocH to this Tuesday 15th April.

This weekend's scheduled league fixtures are:-

Didsbury TocH v Oldham
Fleetwood v Blackburn
Kirkby Lonsdale v De la Salle
St Benedict's v Rossendale
Upper Eden v Workington

In some quarters it is argued that only the bottom two will face the drop as the three promoted teams will bring the league back up to a full 12 teams for next season. However some argue that it will all depend on two other factors. Firstly, the play off system again confuses the issue. Rossendale will face the second placed team in the South Lancashire/Cheshire league (likely to be Burnage) for the right to gain promotion to level six. The second issue is who is likely to be relegated from the divisions above. In North West 2 Tyldesley and Winnington Park are already condemned to the drop. The final relegation spot is between Vale of Lune and Northwich who are separated by one point with each having two league games to play. Looking on who they both have to play then Vale would appear to be in a precarious position. With Winnington Park to be placed in South Lancashire/Cheshire Division One (replacing champions elect Wilmslow) it is likely that Tyldesley will fall into North Lancashire/Cumbria league (replacing champions Burn).

This is where it starts to get really complicated! Should Vale be relegated and Rossendale win the play off then those two teams will face a straight swap. If Vale are relegated and Burnage win the play off then it’s a possibility that Vale will replace Burn in North Lancashire and Tyldesley will fall into South Lancashire/Cheshire. However in some quarters it is argued that both Tyldesley and Vale would move into North Lancashire/Cumbria and if Rossendale lost the play off then as many as four teams could face demotion from North Lancashire/Cumbria league. If that is indeed the case then any of the teams from 11th to 6th place are fighting to stay up.

As it stands St. Benedict's are in 11th place with 7 points (PD -291) with three games to play (Oldham (a), Rosssendale (h), Wigton (h)) and appear to have resigned themselves to the drop. De la Salle are in 10th place on 8 points (PD -51) with two games left against Wigton (h) and Kirkby Lonsdale (a) who are both battling to finish third. Ninth placed Didsbury TocH have 10 points (PD -34) with three games to play against Workington (a), Oldham (h) and Rossendale (a). Oldham are in 8th place on 12 points (PD – 211) with two games left against St. Benedict's (h) and Didsbury (a), whilst 7th placed Fleetwood have 14 points with only one game left at home to Burn. Their points difference is -232 placing them in a difficult situation if four teams are to be relegated. Upper Eden in 6th place also have 14 points (PD -155) with two games left to Blackburn (a) and Workington (h).

So time to put our cards on the table! Our prediction is that Rossendale will win the play off and will join Burn in securing level 6 rugby next season. Those two teams will be replaced by the relegated Tyldesley and Vale of Lune clubs. With three coming up (Heaton Moor, Keswick and the play off winners between Netherall/Burnley) we believe that only two teams will eventually be relegated. Looking at the fixtures it would take a miracle for St. Benedict's to avoid the drop so we predict they will fall back into the Cumbria league. But who will join them in the other relegation place? Upper Eden and Fleetwood would already be safe and we expect Oldham to pick up a win against St. Benedict's ensuring they avoid the drop.

That would leave a straight fight between De la Salle and Didsbury. De la Salle’s home form and good home record against Wigton could give them a valuable two points. With Didsbury unlikely to get anything from their away trip to Workington this would bring both teams level on 10 points and separated only by points difference. Next weekend would therefore be crucial with DlS visiting Kirkby Lonsdale whilst Didsbury face Oldham at home. A win for both DlS and Didsbury could mean it all comes down to points difference with Didsbury facing a re-arranged trip to Rossendale on the last day of the season. A heavy defeat there could be the death knell and with it a reprieve for DlS.

Extracted from the Press Report: Reporting on the success of the inaugural festival the Festival Coordinator, Keith Mellalieu, was delighted that the event even took place. “With the tournament in serious doubt as dusk and torrential rain fell on the previous evening, the sunny morning that developed over the Ribble Valley on Sunday (30th March) calmed everyone’s nerves. The terrific amount of hard work undertaken in the morning by Ian Gibbs and his team of match officials, pitch marshals, groundsmen and the internal bar and catering support was a tribute to Blackburn Rugby Club, who played host to Lancashire’s first ‘Barclays Mini Festivals Cup’ finals day.”

A five-hour programme of pool and finals matches saw sixteen teams of Under 11s and Under 12s boys and girls producing a fine festival of rugby at Blackburn’s Ramsgreave Drive ground, the finale of a new initiative for Lancashire’s mini rugby sections.

Starting in November, the county’s mini sections embarked on a series of traditional triangular-style days and, from the results through to mid-March, determined the top eight clubs at each age to win through to finals day.

All the teams played five matches with each member of an 18-strong starting in at least two of the five games.

“The family atmosphere associated with mini rugby was replicated on Finals Day when, despite an uncertain surface underneath, the touchline spectators added to the enjoyment of players and match officials alike. Widnes were judged to be the recipient of the ‘Club Supporters-of-the-Festival’, and the Merseyside success story continued as Warrington gained first place at Under 12s and Liverpool Collegiate took top-spot at Under 11s.”

“We are grateful to Barclays for adding their support to this highly innovative competition which we hope will become a significant addition to the Lancashire programme in the years ahead and the county organisation connecting with players and parents at a much earlier age than before.”

With the medals and trophies presented by Barclays’ Regional Director, Jeremy Smith and Lancashire President, Dave Herriman, the final positions were:

Under 11s: Winners: Liverpool Collegiate Other places: 2nd - Widnes, 3rd - Vale of Lune, 4th - Waterloo, 5th - Blackburn, 6th - Leigh, 7th - Tarleton, 8th - Rochdale

Under 12s: Winners: Warrington Others: 2nd - Vale of Lune, 3rd - Leigh, 4th - Preston Grasshoppers, 5th - Waterloo, 6th - Aldwinians, 7th - Ormskirk, 8th – Tarleton

This reunion is not restricted to those Club members who played for the club during 82-83. It would be good to meet anyone who was involved with the Club around that time – late 70’s and the 80’s. We can swap wrinkle counts and compare waist sizes and, no-doubt, tell everyone how we would fare very well in today’s rugby climate!

I realise that this is short notice, and I’m also hampered by lack of contact details, so can I ask everyone to use their own networks please? If you know anyone from this period, tell them about the reunion.

The idea is to have a sit-down meal in the clubhouse, which has been recently refurbished. There aren’t any guest speakers; just a pleasant meal, time to chat, and the odd drink.

The cost for the meal is £21 per head. Please send cheques to me (made out to Blackburn Rugby Club) at my home address and please add a contact address for you – preferably e-mail. We need a minimum number of 60 signed up by April 11th otherwise I’m afraid we’ll have to cancel. Can I ask you again to spread the word, even if you can’t come along yourself?

Please indicate on your reply if you require a vegetarian option

My contact details:

Brian Whitehead, 3 Heys Lodge, Whittle Springs, Chorley, PR6 8AH. Tel: 01257 261990 Email: whitehead928@btinternet.com

I am looking forward to seeing your ugly faces again.

Brian

In a pleasing development to Rugby in the Blackburn and East Lancashire area, Queen Elizabeth School Blackburn has returned to a focus on rugby at the school. Following the appointment of John Morgan to the PE staff, the school as been working hard to return rugby to the forefront of the schools sporting agenda.

In a development of ties, BRUFC has been helping to assist in the process by offering the clubs facilities to the school along with the help of a number of the mini junior coaches at the club. This process was set up following a productive meeting between John and BRUFC’s Chairman of Mini & Youth Ray Pemberton at the start of the season. This meeting helped to clarify the role of both the school and the club and to ensure that there was no exhaustion of the local playing talent leading to over playing and training.

So far the school as found things difficult in terms of results but this was only to be expected given that this is only the beginning of the development process. Speaking to John he is reasonably satisfied with how things have gone so far and is delighted that the boys at all age groups have continued to show enthusiasm and a passion for the game. He thanked the involvement of BRUFC’s Martin Hallam and Paul Jackson who have been keenly involved with the school.

The 1st XV have undertaken a tough looking schedule of fixtures. Following an opening heavy defeat to a strong Ormskirk GS side, results started to show the progress the team was making with close defeats to Bury GS, Clitheroe GS and Arnold School showing an improvement in the team’s outlook. A 45-15 defeat to Stonyhurst Under 16’s in October shook things up for a while but the team remained competitive in the games against strong opposition in Audenshaw GS, Lancaster RGS and Rossall. The first and well deserved victory game in the return fixture against Stonyhurst when a 10-7 showed that the team was on the right track.

The Under 15’s have been competitive in their campaign so far. Opening defeats to Ormskirk GS and Lytham HS paved the way for a draw against Bolton School ‘B’ (12-12) and a win against Arnold School ‘B’ (12-3). However there was disappointment when a 21-15 defeat at Birkdale HS in the first round of games in the Lancashire Emerging Schools competition. The team remained competitive in defeats to Audenshaw GS and Lancaster RGS before an excellent win over Rossall (15-12) showed the team was moving in the right direction.

The Under 14’s have had a mixed bag of results with some heavy defeats at the hands of heavyweights Rossall, QEGS Kirkby Lonsdale and Audenshaw GS tempered by close defeats to St. Bede’s and Lancaster RGS. The team has so far won one and lost one in the Emerging Schools competition.

The Under 13’s results have mirrored those of the 14’s with some heavy defeats mixed in with agonizing defeats. Victories have been earned against St. Mary’s Hall (17-14) and two victories in the emerging schools competition against Rivington & Blackburn and Broughton BC giving them a realistic chance of progressing in the competition.

The Under 12’s started with a bang with a fine 36-27 win at Rossall giving them a good start. Since then it has been harder going with a number of tough games showing them they wouldn’t have things their own way.

Games will continue for all age groups during 2008 and without doubt further progress will be made. In the long term this can only be good for rugby in Blackburn and we will continue to update on the progress made.

Are you interested in playing rugby at BRUFC? Then we want to hear from you! BRUFC are a dynamic go ahead club promoting rugby in the East Lancashire area. We are looking to increase playing numbers at all levels, from mini-junior to 1st XV. We welcome players of all levels and experience and encourage you to enjoy your rugby. We welcome interest from outside the UK for those senior players wanting to experience living and playing in the North West of England. The club boasts some of the best facilities around for a club of its size, with a brand new clubhouse, players gym, dedicated physio support and some of the best playing surfaces in Northern England!

For all senior playing enquiries please contact Chairman of Rugby Gareth Dyer. For all mini-junior and youth interest then please contact Chairman of Mini Junior Rugby Ray Pemberton. Their contact details can be found on the relevant link on the left hand side of the website.

This is a reminder to all players, coaches and supporters at all levels within the Club that they have a clear and total responsibility to ensure that the good name of the Club is preserved at all times. This is especially the case in their behaviour towards any Match Official be it at Ramsgreave Drive or elsewhere. Respect of Match Officials must be total at all times. The Club takes a very dim view of any individuals who do not adhere to this view point. Whilst the game will always stir the passions and emotions, it is essential that these are tempered with the need for respect and courtesy towards referees, touch judges and assessors at all times. Remember that without a ref there is no game. It really is as simple as that and we would ask that this is remembered at all times.

"Arrogant", "selfish", "narrow-minded", "argumentative", "tactless", "short-tempered" and "aggressive" were just some of his finer points!

But you knew you’d met him and you certainly knew when he walked in the room; 6’4”, good looking, educated, athletic with a physique Hercules would have been proud of. Is it any wonder he excelled in life, in sport and particular rugby? In fact Blackburn Rugby Club became his second home and his second family.

Always the guy leading, never following, he soon became Captain. His ability and his desire to win led him briefly to a successful spell at Fylde where on one occasion he was rumoured by a selector to have actually passed the ball!! (I must point out that these reports remain unsubstantiated). Hodge hated unfamiliarity and it wasn’t long before he was back amongst the fold, his fold at Blackburn – commanding respect on and off the pitch once more.

Rossall educated, he had an incredible sense of right and wrong, an inbuilt sense of justice; a dangerous combination to be so opinionated and so big! In fact to know Hodge closely was to row with Hodge but we also cried with him and laughed - we all laughed a lot. Blunt and to the point he had no time for superficiality but always time for depth; no time for deceit but always time for the truth. He was intensely loyal and trustworthy; in Medieval Times he would have been the King’s personal bodyguard – always the first to stand up and be counted (strike that - he would have been the king!)

But there was passion there as well, huge passion and an enormous heart. Oliver came along and his priorities suddenly changed. Changed so he could be with him as much as humanely possible becoming Oli’s best mate as well as his Dad. He was immensely proud that Ol had recently achieved a place at QEGS, as he knew how essential a good education is and how Ol was turning into a talented athlete and rugby player. Certainly a chip off the old granite block.

But it wasn’t just Ol who Hodge had time for. He’d spend hours and hours giving out advice on life and relationships to - well to frankly anyone who would listen! His own life could be in tatters but he’d still take great delight in telling you where you had gone wrong and annoyingly, on occasions, he was right!!

Tony was cultured – he liked cooking (over facing his guests with the same portion sizes as his own). He enjoyed wine, art and anything that, as he would put it, had SOUL.

Hodge had SOUL.

He tracked his birth mother down in the States and a subsequent visit there answered lots of his questions bringing some peace. Then he met Julie. His soul mate; a new chapter in the book (a new book I’d say) and certainly a new Hodge. He became calm and happy, contented, unafraid to tell everyone how deeply he was in love and how here was the girl he was going to marry!

(He’d be looking at his watch now, wondering if he’d won the sweepstake on the time of my speech and itching to get to the bar so I’d better sum up!)

Well, every day with Hodge was an adventure , an emotional roller coaster ride of epic proportions but he was always positive and always looking forward. He would play, work and party at 150%; (to quote a friend) “he loved life.” He was individual, unconventional, a real character and what an amazing thing today that he has touched so many people! Whether you are here as his partner, his son, his family, his friend, his team mate, his neighbour, his acquaintance or his work colleague; what an incredible thing that so many people have come to pay their respects to this remarkable man!!

And if Hodge leaves us with 3 things:………
- It's to put 150% into every single minute of every single day
- be positive and always look forward
- and to find happiness!

Because Hodge did!!
Si Morris