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.

BRUFC are delighted to announce that Jordan Pearson has been selected to captain this seasons Lancashire Under 20's squad. This will involve a number of warm up games and their entire County Championship Campaign that will begin in the New Year. Joining him in the squad are winger/full back George Thomas and fellow back rower Luke Copping.

Commenting on their inclusion and Jordan's appointment, Chairman of Rugby Gareth Dyer said 'Jordan fully deserves this opportunity. His work ethic and commitment are unquestionable and his game understanding has come on over the last 12 months. He was a key player for Lancashire last season and his good showing last season put him in the frame this time around. The club are rightfully proud of him and wish him all the best for the county season. It is also pleasing that George and Luke will be part of the squad. Both guys are quality young rugby players and I have no doubt they will both add something to the squad'.

The County fixtures can be seen by visiting the dedicated Lancashire RFU website at www.clubs.rfu.com/Clubs/portals/lancashire where Lancashire Trophy updates can also be found.

As the saying goes 'All good things must come to an end!'. Unfortunately this was true of Burn's 2nd XV long unbeaten home record which came to an end at the hands of Leigh on Saturday.

Games between the two sides have been close over the last season and Saturday was no exception with Leigh pipping the home side by 31-24. The home side tried desperately to keep the run going only to be denied an equalizing score right at the death.

Captain Andrew Baron said 'It's disappointing for the run to come to an end after two complete seasons of being unbeaten at home. However I'm glad it was lost in an enjoyable game like that than a low scoring battle. The trick is now to start a new run and turn some of these narrow defeats into victories. If we can do that then we should then start to climb the table in what is turning out to be a very competitive league'.

We now provide an update on flanker Micky Doolan who was injured in the weekend win over De La Salle.

Micky sustained a disclocated and broken ankle during a regulation tackle fifteen minutes from the end of the game. He was taken to Blackburn Royal Hospital by ambulance after the final whistle. The dislocation was then put back in place. Micky was then operated on the following day and two plates have been put in place to support the break. He will now be in plaster for around 6 weeks before the specialists re-assess his progress. Micky is likely to be discharged from hospital on Wednesday.

A number of teammates and coaches have either visited or contacted Micky and they report that he remains in good spirits and hopes to come down to the club once he has got up and about. His girlfriend Liz will no doubt be cursing the situation as her brother Ben Lewis has also sustained an injury already this season!! The club sends it's best wishes to both Micky and Ben and hope that they make a full recovery as soon as possible.

We are delighted to announce another addition to the 1st XV squad in the shape of George Thomas. George can cover the fullback, wing and centre positions and goes straight into tomorrows 2nd XV squad for their match at Whitchurch.

George has a fine rugby pedigree having learnt the game at both Stonyhurst College and Sedbergh School whilst he has also played for Preston Grasshoppers and was part of the Lancashire Under 20's training squad last season.

1st XV Team Manager Richard Crayston said 'George is a young talented guy who has impressed this week in training. We are now registering him with the club and we expect him to come into contention for the 1st XV shortly. We have some very exciting young talent coming through at the club and we're sure the supporters will be impressed by the quality of the young guys who are now involved with the squad'.

Burn have added another new face to their 1st XV squad for the coming season in the shape of former Stonyhurst College back rower Luke Copping. Luke has been training with the squad this week and will feature for the clubs 2nd XV this weekend at Wilmslow. Luke has just left the College and featured for their 1st XV for a couple of seasons including being part of their summer tour to Australia. Chairman of Rugby Gareth Dyer said on his recruitment 'Luke was brought to my attention by a number of people including former Burn player Mick McHugh. He was highly rated at Stonyhurst and has shown up well in training this week. He'll add further competition for places in the back row, an area where there is now some real depth of competition. I'm looking forward to Luke putting his marker down and giving me another headache in terms of selection'. Luke joins Matt Pickles in joining the club straight from the college.

Commenting on the squad Dyer continued 'We have recruited well over the summer and at the start of the season. That brings the number of new faces to seven plus the return of two others to the squad. I'm hopeful that Adam Gough will also be able to make a return shortly and give us further options behind the scrum. The injury situation is improving with only Gareth Evans and Ben Lewis long term injury victims. The challenge is on for places, we are now seeing around 30 guys training on both Tuesday and Thursday with Mark Bullen running specfic training sessions for the 2nd XV on Thursdays. This is a step forward and the selection headaches are growing. This is what the club is all about and everyone is working hard to achieve the things we want to'.

At the annual end of season Players Dinner, the following award winners were announced:

1st XV Players Player of the Year: Jordan Pearson

Runners Up: Paul Bleasdale & Damian Miller

2nd XV Players Player of the Year: Gareth Bullen

Young Player of the Year: Sam Parkinson

3rd XV Player of the Year: Paul Schofield

Clubman of the Year: Jonathan Leach

Club Colours Awarded to: Simon Calcutt, Barclay Roberts, Luca Dalan, Alberto Pellegrinelli

Chairman of Rugby Gareth Dyer played tribute to the players of all levels. 'We've probably exceeded my expectations of how well we have done across the three senior teams. We have a three year plan in place and this is year two. We are starting to develop a greater playing base but we must continue to recruit players of all ages and abilities to BRUFC. That responsibility falls to us all to spread the word and build the profile of the club. We are not the finished article and there are lots of things to work on both on and off the pitch. I'm very determined to take this club to the level we want to be at but we must make sure we build proper foundations on which to take the club forward..'

We are very pleased to announce that Number 8 Jordan Pearson has been rewarded for some stunning displays with the Lancashire Under 20's by being put on standby for the full Lancashire Squad. Due to a number of injuries at senior level the county have decided to promote from within the system and JP has benefitted. Chairman of Rugby Gareth Dyer was proud of Jordan's call up 'Jord works really hard at his game and has been outstanding all season. It might not come to anything in terms of the full squad but just to be identified as a leading contender for a call up is outstanding. When you take into account Jordan's age and level of experience it shows what a talent he is. We're very proud of him and also Jonny Walmsley who has been in fine form for Lancashire also'.

Both Jordan and Jonny will be in the Lancashire Under 20's team that takes on Staffordshire in the County Championship Quarter Final this weekend. The game is away and will be held at Lichfield RFC with a 2.30pm kick off. We wish both of them and their team mates the best of luck for a tough game.

The crunch weekend is upon us! This weekend see’s Burn travel to Kirkby Stephen to take on Upper Eden in a crucial North Lancashire/Cumbria league fixture. With two games to go Burn hold a slender one point lead over rivals Wigton in the race for second place. The team finishing second will go forward to a promotion play off with the runners up in the South Lancashire/Cheshire league. This is likely to be either Leigh or Wirral who meet in their penultimate league fixture this coming Saturday.

The remaining fixtures for Burn and Wigton read as follows:-

31.3.07 Upper Eden vs. Blackburn/Oldham vs. Wigton

14.4.07 Blackburn vs. Trafford MV/Wigton vs. Whitehaven

28.4.07 Promotion Play Off

We would like as many Burn supporters as possible to travel this weekend to support the team at Upper Eden. There are limited places available to travel on the team bus. Please contact Gareth Dyer as soon as possible to confirm a place. These will be strictly on a first come first served basis. Your support could play an important part in the potential success of the lads. Please do your best to get to the game and bring as many supporters as you can with you!!

It’s been a long time since Lancashire Under 20’s progressed through to the latter stages of the County Championship but they booked their place in the quarter finals with a comprehensive 19-35 victory over Durham on Sunday. The victory was secured in no small part due to the efforts of Blackburn duo Jordan Pearson and Jonny Walmsley who both played starring roles.

Jordan scored one try (to add to his effort against Cumbria the week before) whilst Jonny added two as the red rose county finished runners up to Yorkshire in the Northern Section. After an opening defeat away at Yorkshire, Lancashire recovered with wins against Cheshire and Northumberland before losing a tight game at home to Cumbria. However Sunday’s win over Durham coupled with the Cumbrian’s defeat to Yorkshire allowed the red rose county to progress with a better point’s differential. They have now been drawn to play away against Staffordshire in the Quarter Final on Sunday 1st April.

The club is rightly very proud of the lad’s achievements to date. Chairman of Rugby Gareth Dyer said ‘Both JP and Jonny are top lads who deserve the county recognition they are getting. When you consider the make up of the squad, they were up against players from bigger clubs who in years past have been looked upon more favourably than players from so called unfashionable clubs like Burn. But they are both talented, hardworking guys who are definitely worth their place in any county squad. Both of them have benefited from playing regular 1st XV rugby and that has pushed them to the forefront of the selector’s minds. Neither of them was involved with the squad for the Yorkshire defeat at the start of the county campaign but caught the eye of watching selectors whilst playing for Burn and this propelled them straight into the starting XV. Both of them are young enough to be involved with this squad for the next couple of years but I’m sure they would relish the chance of a trip to Twickenham this year if they can win their next two games. Me and the coaches are delighted with their form this season and both are key members of the Blackburn squad’.

Both BRUFC and Accrington ARLFC are delighted to announce a ground breaking partnership that will see Rugby League played at Ramsgreave Drive. Initially for the remainder of the current season, Accrington ARLFC will play their remaining league matches at BRUFC on Saturday afternoons starting on Saturday 21st October. Initially it will just be the senior side that will play at Ramsgreave Drive, with the team training on Mondays and Wednesdays. ARLFC players having access to the gym facilities. If the arrangement proves to be a success for both clubs then a more formal arrangement will be put in place to develop the agreement. This may see the Accrington Junior Section also using BRUFC as their base.

Accrington have had a bit of a nomadic existence over the last few years and have been using Accrington Cricket Club as a base. We are sure that BRUFC can accommodate their players, coaches and supporters and make them feel welcome at Ramsgreave Drive. This will allow Accrington to use our excellent facilities and hopefully put down 'roots' at a stable venue. Commenting on the move, BRUFC Chariman of Rugby feels it can be a beneficial move to both clubs. 'Whilst the agreement is initially for the remiander of this season, both clubs are hopeful that this can develop into something longer term. There may be a few teething problems but we're positive that these can easily be overcome with a positive attitiude and dialogue between the clubs. In time the agreement may allow both parties to benefit from greater funding and sponsorship from the various sporting bodies and allow both games to develop and thrive in the East Lancs area. Lots of clubs such as Fylde and Blackpool Panthers, Sedgley Park and Swinton Lions and Newcastle and Gateshead Thunder have all had success from such agreements and whilst both of our clubs are on a smaller scale to those, I can't see why we can't help each other to build our profiles, infrastructures and of course playing strength over the coming seasons.

The Lancashire Evening Telegraph will be at Ramsgreave Drive tomorrow to cover the first rugby league game at the ground (Kick Off is 2pm) before covering Burn's important league game with Oldham which kick offs at 3pm.

We are delighted to announce that we have secured a sponsorship deal with Bryant Homes by Taylor Woodrow. They have agreed to sponsor the club for all of the coming season with the option to continue for next season as well. This is a significant deal for the club and we welcome Bryant Homes as our new main sponsor. They replace SCL Coatings who have moved aside after three very productive years. We hope that this will be the start of an excellent relationship between BRUFC and Bryant Homes.

Chariman of Sponsorship Andrew Graham was delighted to announce the news. 'This is an exciting deal for the club and one that we will work hard to develop over initially this season and hopefully for the longer term as well. Bryant Homes already have links with Fylde RFC and are keen to grow their links with local sporting organisations. I must say a big thank you to Dianne Sheerin at Taylor Woodrow for establishing the agreement and our own Paul Westhead who made the initial contact between the two parties'.

HEALTHRACK LANCASHIRE 7’S TOURNAMENT BLACKBURN RUFC 13TH MAY 2006.

The 8th Lancashire 7’s tournament at Blackburn RUFC was held on 13th March 2006. Following a week where the team numbers reduced from 15 to 12 including the withdrawal of last years’ winners West Park Red Rocks things got worse on the day when the final number was confirmed at 11.

Two groups were hastily compiled and immediately some mouth watering fixtures took shape. In group A the, SpoonAAs a combination of the Anti Assassins and the Wooden Spoon Charity looked strong contenders to go all the way which is more than can be said of their passionate supporters who, after fine food and copious amounts of Red Wine struggled to move for several hours after lunch. Other group A sides included the Vodka Red Bulls, hosts Blackburn looking youthful with pace in the backs, Vale of Lune, University of Central Lancs and the 3rd Selects, a group of Blackburn 3rdXv players who were clearly more suited to the bigger game rather than the cut down version.

In Group B the Northumbria Knights and Preston Grasshoppers looked like they would dominate proceedings, but with QJP and Lincoln Elite, 2 teams made up of Stonyhurst Old boys there was always a possibility that an up set was on the cards. The final team making up group B was Bury who apparently had heard that the free BBQ was something not to be missed.

With the top two sides in each group going through to the semi finals of the main competition and the sides placed 3rd and 4th in each group, making up the plate, there was always going to some competitive matches. This was particularly true of group A where with the final set of group games to play, Blackburn, Vodka Red Bulls, Vale of Lune and Univ of Ctrl Lancs were all in position to finish anywhere from 2nd to 5th . As it was, a resounding victory by hosts Blackburn over the University secured their place in the plate only narrowly beaten on points difference to the main competition by the Vodka Red Bulls. The SpoonAAs were the clear winners of group A, playing some great Rugby along the way and the 3rd Selects were left to do what they do best propping up the bar rather than the scrum.

The pick of the games in group B was a feisty affair involving the group heavyweights, Northumbria Knights and Preston Grasshoppers. In a great game of 7’s Rugby where the lead changed hands on numerous occasions the Knights from the North East were trailing 21-19 before a last minute, length of the pitch try secured victory and meant they finished at the head of the group. The Stonyhurst sides QJP and Lincoln Elite both progressed to the plate and the boys on the BBQ came under pressure as Bury went crashing out.

The plate competition saw Blackburn pitched against the Lads from Lincoln who played some great Rugby to win through to the final 15 – 7. Here they met their old adversaries QJP who had overcome vale of Lune in the other Semi. In a one sided final QJP triumphed 60 points to 7 with their superior fitness and organisation coming through.

In the main competition it proved to be one game too many for Dino Radice and his Vodka Red Bulls who went down to the Northumbria Knights 49-5. Full credit to the VRB’s who support this competition year on year and always come up with a few surprises. The other semi final was probably the best game of the whole tournament as Hopper were matched against the SpoonAAs. With never more than a score in it and the lead constantly changing, it was the Preston side who came through to win by the narrowest 24 – 21 margin.

The final was therefore a re-run of the group match between Northumbria Knights and Preston Grasshoppers. On this occasion Hoppers took revenge by squeezing the life out of the Knights and giving them no opportunity to run from deep. Preston came out worthy winners 32 – 0 and took revenge for the defeat earlier in the day.

Darren Wilson Preston’s scrum half was awarded the Man of the Tournament which was presented by Gary Bailey of Healthrack, the tournament sponsors. Special thanks go to our sponsors for the day, Healthrack who have taken over the event this year from Thwaites Brewery. A final word of thanks on the day to the four referees who worked tirelessly all afternoon, often taking charge of 3 consecutive games.

Another successful tournament.

The Development XV have been rewarded for their comprehensive victory over Eccles last weekend with a home tie in the 2nd round of the Halbro Trophy. They face Glossop at Ramsgreave Drive on the 15th October. We are also pleased to announce that the 3rd XV have also progressed despite losing their 1st round tie at home to Fiji, sorry I mean Littleborough. They have been given a best runners up spot and will now face Broughton Park also at home on the same day.

As you may know yesterday saw the running of the Great North Run in Newcastle. The 50,000 runners run a half marathon of 13 miles which is gruelling by anybody's standards. Amongst the field were two of our very own namely John Beeston and Adam Smith. John tells me that conditons were very hot and this made an already tough event even harder. Nonetheless he manged a very respectful time of 2 hours and 17 minutes and in doing so raised £400 for MIND, the mental health charity. This is a superb effort from '2 heads' and we are very proud of his achievement. If anybody would like to make a donation then please let myself or John know and we will gratefully add it to an already impressive collection.

As we all know Adam is a very fine distance runner and recorded an amazing finishing time of 1 hour and 32 minutes. This placed him in 682nd place out of the 50,000 field and is a stunning time and placement. However Adam was a little disappointed as he felt he would have been even quicker had it not been for picking up blisters on route!! However to put it in perspective, this put him only half an hour behind the winner who in winning yesterdays event set a new world record for the half marathon. Given the conditions this is a fantastic achievement. Adam too was running for the charity MIND. Well done guys we are very proud of you both!!!

We have received confirmation that both Jonny Walmsley & Jordan Pearson have progressed to the Lancashire 18 Group Final Trial. We wish them well in making the final Squad. This is a fantastic achievement and we are very proud of their progress to date. Keep posted for further details when we have them!!

It is pleasing to report that both Jordan Pearson and Jonathan Walmsley attended trials for the Lancashire Under 18 team yesterday evening. Both were happy with their performances and we are hopeful that both will have done enough for inclusion in the final squad.

If you have perused the Events Section of the site you will have noticed that the Fancy Dress Beach Party will now be at the club on Saturday 24th September. It will start at 7.30pm and will be till late. Tickets are £5 either in advance or £6 on the door. Those not in fancy dress will also be fined an extra £1 'Boring Tax'!!! Tickets can be purchased through the club from Damian Miller, Andy Baron, Bill Neild or from behind the bar. All ticket proceeds will go to the clubs end of season tour to Lithuania. Please support this event in numbers by bringing as many friends and family as possible!!

Perhaps the worst kept secret at the club can now be made public. We are delighted to announce that scrum half Paul Bleasdale is to return to the club on a short term basis. 'Bleasy' was a key figure in the Burn 1st XV for four seasons before deciding to re-join Preston Grasshoppers half way through last season. Following his decision to go travelling it had been expected that he would be away from the UK for at least a year but following a delay in his plans he now finds himself back in the UK for at least the next two months. To this end he has made himself available to us and we have extended the opportunity to him to return to the club. A prolific try scorer he will add extra depth and experience to the squad which is currently showing lots of new faces and talent. His know how and skill will therefore be a great help to both the team and in developing the all round strength of our squad.

We continue to talk to a number of other players and are also in talks with two further overseas players about coming to Blackburn. Hopefully this may lead to further announcements in due course. Whilst encouraged by the displays of both the 1st XV and Development XV at the weekend we still need to add players to cover the demands of what is a long season.

We are pleased to announce that last seasons Kiwi import Brad Kirner will be returning to Ramsgreave Drive on a short term basis. Brad who played for Burn for the second half of last season has returned to live in Manchester to take up a job opportunity. He is looking for a club nearer to his Manchester base but in the short term he would like to gain some match sharpness by playing for us. This we felt was mutually beneficial to both parties as we continue to look to strengthen our squad for the season.

In support of new 1st XV captain Richard Spicer there will be two vice captains to act in support. They are last seasons players player of the season the long serving John Beeston and backs coach and full back Dino Radice. Both players are highly respected and will offer invaluable support to 'Spice' throughout the season.

For those of you who have been down to the club over the last week you will no doubt have noticed our new camera tower situated above the dugout on the far side of the pitch. This has been kindly donated to us by our friends at Ribble Reclamation and a big thank you is due from us all at the club. The tower will allow us to video tape our home games with a view to aiding the players (and management!!) in their understanding of what is happening on a Saturday afternoon.

An advert for Ribble Reclamation will appear in the new seasons programme along with all our other very generous sponsors whose continued support is always gratefully appreciated.

We are delighted to announce that David Morris has accepted an invitation from outgoing President Roger Graham to become the new BRUFC President with immediate effect. Dave has been involved with the club for more years 'than I care to remember' and his appointment has been heartily endorsed by everyone within the club. David has most recently been the clubs county representative and esteemed 'gateman'.

Dave has also played a glowing tribute to his predecessor Roger Graham who has stepped down after a successful 6 years as President. On accepting the role David said that he hoped he would be able to live up to the high expectations of the role that Roger has established and stated that Roger's achievements had left the club in a far stronger position than when he took over. Roger will continue to advise the club in the time he has available. He has recently retired from his well known company Graham & Brown and he hopes to be able to spend more time with his family and travelling abroad.

David's immediate priorities are to continue with the clubs plans for refurbishment whilst his knowledge, experience and contacts will be of immense help to Chairman of Rugby Gareth Dyer in his attempts to overhaul the playing standards at the club. Together with continuing club Chairman Richard Yates they will focus on improving the clubs off the field activities which that have been under review during the off season. We wish him well!!!

This Saturday will see the start of our season with a tough looking warm up game away at Rochdale. This fixture has been arranged to commemorate the opening of Rochdale's impressive new club house, changing rooms and training facilities. There will be a presentation before the match and we are looking forward to a pleasent day and an opportunity to see where we are at in our pre-season preparations.

We are pleased to announce that Richard Spicer has been appointed 1st XV captain for the coming season. 'Spice' ahs been with the club for four seasons and is a very experienced campaigner having played over 17 seasons in the senior game. Richard captained the side at the end of last season following the unfortunate injury to Adam Smith and the coaching staff and management were very impressed with his enthusiasm and commitment in what were very difficult circumstances. Richard was very keen to take on the role and this again was a factor when deciding on who should succeed Adam. I'm sure you'll all want to wish Spice all the best for the coming season as we look to bounce back from the disappointments of last year.

As we move into the final stages of our pre-season preparations, we are now able to update the current position on the make up of the senior squad for the new season. It has been a busy off season with a number of new players joining and a number leaving. We detail all the movements below:

Arrivals:

Tony Crosby (fly half, centre) Ian Rose (scrum half) Mario Vaghetti (fly half, centre) Luke Elston (fly half) Jonathan Walmsley (centre) Andre Breytenbach (centre, full back) Bonga Ntandani (wing) Conrad Geel (Back Row) Jordan Pearson (Back Row) Stuart Quayle (2nd Row) Ed Baron (2nd Row, Back Row) Dan Thompson (prop)

Deapartures:

Richard McCarthy (Preston) Dominic Moon (Waterloo) Brad Kirner (New Zealand) Allistair Reay (Alrincham Kersal) Gareth Evans (Orrell) Andrew Ridehalgh (retired) Mike Sword (retired) Adam Mererdith (overseas)

We are also talking to three other players at this time with a view to them joining us shortly. We hope to make an announcement very soon.

We have now completed the first full week of pre-season training and the Senior squad management have been encouraged by the turn out and commitment of those attending. We have averaged 25 players per session over the first three sessions and the commitment and fitness levels have been above expectations. In total 40 different players have attended training and we are aware more are still to return after holidays. However I would still like to see more faces attending on a regular basis and I will be chasing you up over the next week!! Not a nice thought I bet but you have been warned...

Following a very well attended players meeting on Wednesday 6th July the training and preparation for the new Colts season has already begun. A training day and practice match took place on Sunday 10th July against a strong Sedgley Park Colts XV. Both the players and coaches got a lot out of the game and the hard work of pre-season is now underway. The Colts will train at the club each Wednesday from 6.45 and all prospective players are invited to attend. This Sunday see's the Colts entrance in a beach tag rugby competition as a further part of the pre-season buid up. The first official league game in the Lancs/Cheshire Section C is on Sunday 4th September.

Dear All,

A new season, a new start and a clean slate!! Last season is now consigned to history but hopefully the lessons will have been learnt and the whole frustrating experience can become motivation to ensure a return to winning ways! Lots of hard work has been going on behind the scenes to ensure a successful 2005/06 but the most important people are always you, the players.

Since taking on the Chairmanship in March 2005, I have been concentrating my planning on getting things right for the start of this season. My role is to develop the playing structure of the club, organise recruitment, appoint the coaching staff and put in place a structure that will take the club forward both on and off the field. I’m enthused by the developments made so far. I’m glad that nearly all the players who were with us last season remain committed to the club but I wouldn’t be doing my job if I weren’t looking to strengthen the squad too. I’m therefore very happy to welcome a number of new faces to the club and I’m sure everyone will make them feel welcome. The 2nd XV has reverted to a Development XV with the emphasis on bringing younger and developing players through to 1st XV level. Together both teams will make up the ‘senior squad’ which will train as one and from which both teams will be selected.

On the coaching side, I’m extremely pleased to have secured the services of Ian Geary as our Head Coach for next season. Ian is a top level RFU coach who has a vast knowledge of the game and I have complete faith in Ian’s ability to improve the overall playing standard. Whilst disappointed by the results in the second half of the season I agree with his assessment that if people want to improve then it must be done in training and not just be expected to fall into place on a Saturday. A greater commitment to training will allow Ian to use his full repertoire of drills to test/improve the abilities of all players.

In the past players were encouraged to take on a ‘Personal Responsibility’ to their role in the club. I think this again should be emphasised in the coming season. I would merely add that the squad as a whole should also look to adopt a ‘Collective responsibility’ to both playing and training. The attitude of the squad needs to improve dramatically with an emphasis on greater honesty and discipline. The reality is that we were the worst team in the division by results last season and we must now take a collective responsibility to putting the matter right. Players must offer commitment, honesty and respect to putting in the hard work on both Tuesdays and Thursdays as well as in their own time. If not, they’re not just letting themselves down but everyone else who wants to see Burn get back to the level we should be at. I’m encouraged that a good number of you have been down at the club on Wednesday evenings during the off season to keep in shape. More of these player initiatives are welcome.

Elsewhere the club is also putting the final touches to a scheme to redevelop the current off the field facilities. Our pitches are amongst the best in the North West whilst plans are advanced on rebuilding the clubhouse and bar area. A club tour is planned for end of next season and I would encourage you all to go on the trip and also support the many fund raising events planned during the course of the season.

A pre-season players meeting is planned for this Tuesday 5th July at 6.45pm in the clubhouse. This is a great opportunity to listen to what has been worked on at the club since the end of last season and also an opportunity to put forward any thoughts you may have to develop the club. A number of letters were sent to players during last week and we would hope that you will make every effort to attend. This meeting is not exclusive so please spread the word and get as many players to attend as possible.

Here's to a positive new season!!

Regards

Gareth Dyer Chairman of Rugby BRUFC

We are still on discusssions with prospective opponents to complete our pre-season program. Unfortunately this has so far drawn a blank other than the game at Rochdale on the 20th August.

We did approach Vale of Lune about a possible fixture on the 13th August but they were unable to commit to a game. They highlighted their continued injury problems and lack of depth in playing resources behind their thinking for only playing one pre-season game. The Vale head coach John Morgan (who is well known to BRUFC as he has taken sessions at the club in past seasons)said that they had to learn from the mistakes of their disappointing season last year where injuries and unavailabilities meant they were relegated from North 1. This had meant a reduced number of games in an attempt to keep their players fit and free from injury. I must admit this situation does sound somewhat familiar!!

We will therefore continue to talk to other clubs that we have targeted as suitable prepartion in the build up to the new season.

We can confirm that a meeting will take place in the clubhouse on Wednesday 6th July at 6.45pm for all prospective Colts players. This meeting is also open to parents and we hope as many of you as possible will attend. Letters of invitation will be sent to prospective players shortly.

Dear Potential Sponsor - We need your support!

Blackburn Rugby Club is committed to continuing the development of rugby within Lancashire, this would not be possible without the huge help and commitment from local individuals and companies.

Whilst continued success on the field is paramount, as important, is the development of the Club’s tradition of putting something back into the community.

I have set out below for your information the various sponsorship /marketing opportunities available for next season.

DEVELOPMENT / 2ND TEAM SPONSOR

We have a lot of good youngsters coming through the ranks at Blackburn. To help their development we wish to create a Development Squad with its own Team Manager, kit and support team to help improve players and get them ready for 1st XV Rugby. We are actively looking for a sponsor - the sponsorship package includes :

 Company Logo on shirts

 Advertising Board on 1st XV pitch

 Sponsors Day - Development Squad fixture of choice - 40 guests for lunch & wine

 Full page advertisement in program

Cost : £2,500 + VAT

Colts rugby is the first stepping stone to playing 1st XV Rugby. At Blackburn we have an excellent mini & youth system, we now want to focus as much effort on our 17+ age group to develop a good Colts Team. This will pay dividends in the future for our development and 1st XV Squads. We are actively looking for a sponsor - the sponsorship package includes :

 Company logo on kit

 Advertising Board on 1st XV Pitch

 Full page advertisement in program

Cost : £1,500 + VAT

 Acknowledgement on Patron's page of club program

 Full club membership for season for you and partner

 2 guaranteed tickets for 6 Nations International at Twickenham

 10 places at Patron's lunch - first XV Home Game - including lunch and wine

 Free entrance to ground for all home games - and personal car park place

Cost : £2,000 + VAT

MATCH DAY SPONSORSHIP

Receiving guests and having a hearty lunch in the sponsorship lounge at Ramsgreave, whilst enjoying a 1st XV league/cup match is extremely enjoyable.

Please contact me to confirm your interest, now I have next seasons fixture list available. We sell out every year so please contact me quickly.

Cost : £650 + VAT (plus food, wine, bar drinks) of £1500 + VAT (40 people incl. Food,Wine,Bar Drinks) (£20 per head for additional numbers)

If you would like to take an advert in the 2005/2006 programme cost is approx £280+VAT for full page colour. Please confirm your order to Phil Isherwood at info@brufc.com by 7th August 2005.

ADVERTISING BOARD AROUND 1ST XV PITCH

To renew your advertising board or to have one in place for the start of the season, please contact David Morris on (01706) 877629 (W) or (01254) 248041 (H) or (07785) 972360 (M)

£50 DONATIONS

If you do not want to actively sponsor the Club, then why not make a small donation of £50. Please make all cheques payable to BRUFC.

Kind regards.

Andrew H Graham Chairman of Sponsorship

Contact Details: HOME : (01254) 826045 WORK : (01254) 291003- (PA - Toni Salt) MOBILE : (07768) 506332 E-MAIL : andrew.graham@grahambrown.com

We have now received details of the 1st round draw for next seasons Lancashire Trophy. We have been drawn away at De La Salle with the game likely to be played on Saturday 27th August which is the August Bank Holiday weekend. Kick off is likely to be 3pm but we will confirm these details in due course.

The full draw is:

Aspull v Widnes

Burnage v Rossendale

Trafford MV v Warrington

Rochdale v Oldham

Broughton Park v Liverpool St Helens

Leigh v Tyldesley

Fleetwood v Heaton Moor

The last 8 will automatically qualify for the first round of the Lancashire Cup.

The club is currently advertising for a new player/assistant coach to join the club. The following press release is currently appearing on the Lancashire RFU website:

This summer has seen a large re-building job both on and off the pitch at Blackburn RUFC. Following last seasons unexpected relegation to the North Lancs/Cumbria Division the club has taken steps to ensure a quick return to North West 2 and hopefully beyond. Off the pitch the club is undertaking an expensive refurbishment to its club house and bar to extend its already comfortable social facilities. This they believe will allow them to further increase their off the field business which has seen a steady increase over the last few years.

On the pitch matters have also been overhauled. New Chairman of Rugby Gareth Dyer has taken immediate steps to improve the squad with a large recruitment drive already looking like paying dividends. ‘We were caught out by a lot of injuries and untimely retirements last season and we lacked the strength in depth to cover the situation. I’ve been very mindful of this and have targeted at least 10 new recruits to the senior squad which we are already well on the way to achieving. We have overhauled the structure below 1st XV to make sure we develop our own players to come through to the senior ranks including the formation of Development and Colts XV’s.’

Ian Geary the ex-Manchester and Fylde coach has been appointed Head Coach for the new season but the club wants to appoint an assistant to work alongside him. ‘ Ideally we are looking for a player coach who is coming to the end of their career who wants to get involved on the coaching side of things’ continues Dyer. ‘We would like to talk to anyone who feels they may be interested in this type of role. Ian is in charge this season but we are aware that he may be retiring abroad next year and we want to get our coaching structure set up to ensure a smooth progression over the next few seasons. We would of course look to sponsor the right person through their coaching badges and would look to discuss a reasonable package to entice the right person to the club. As I say we are looking for a player/assistant coach who can work with Ian and learn alongside him. He is a top level RFU coach with years of experience and this would be a good opportunity for someone to move into the coaching side of the game’.

To contact Gareth please feel free to call him on 07981 4959533 or e-mail the club direct on info@brufc.com

A fair number of players are keeping themselves in shape during the off season by doing a spot of touch rugby and football at the club on Wednesday evenings. This is open to all players of all ages who want to do a bit before pre-season begins. Richard Spicer and Damian Miller are in attendence every Wednesday from 7pm and your appearance at the club at this time is welcomed.

So then, as we limber up to the big match we give you the match squad for Blackburn Presidents:

Backs:

Dino Radice (Blackburn), Ben Fox (Blackburn), Andrew Graham (Blackburn), Brad Kirner (Blackburn), Mike Bale (Unattached), Dave Farley (Manchester), Pete Aikman (Unattached), Phil Gladding (Falkirk)

Forwards:

Lee Gallagher (Unattached), Andrew Morris (Captain Manchester), Dominic Moon (Blackburn), Martin Smith (Halifax), Allistair Atkinson (Orrell), Damian Miller (Blackburn), Roger Carins (Blackburn), Luke Hewson (Manchester), Barclay Roberts (Blackburn), Stuart Riley (Canadian XV), Mark Bentley (Manchester), Steven Neville (London Welsh), Richard McCarthy (Blackburn)

As always we are still waiting on a few further confirmations and more details will be released shortly!! We still await the full squad details for the Old Boys.

This Sunday 1st May, we see the start of what is hoped will be an annual fixture between a Blackburn Presidents XV and the Stoneyhurst Old Boys XV. Both selection panels have been hard at work putting together their squads and both seem pleased with the talent at their disposal. The game itself kicks off at 1.30pm but as you hopefully already know there will lots going on at the club that day. Therefore with this in mind we thought it would be helpful to give you a full run down of the days events so that you can plan your day out accordingly!!

Itinerary:

11:45am Curtain raiser match between Burn Under 16's and a touring Middlesbrough Under 16 side

Midday Club opens for patrons to purchase lunch vouchers

12:30 Pre match lunch served in clubs hospitality suite

13:10 Under 16 match ends

13:30 THE BIG ONE!! Kick off for President vs. Old Boys

15:00 Game over

16:00 Presentation in clubhouse for Man of the Match awards and Winners Cup and speeches from the relevant committee's

16:30 Onwards. Time to replenish lost fluids and gloat accordingly!

19:30 The band Cherrybomb will play their first ensemble!!

The club will be open throughout the day to allow all those present access to thirst prevention devices. Please bring all friends, family and players along to support the club and what should be an enjoyable bank holiday event!!

I would like to announce that I have agreed to take on the role of Chairman of Rugby for next season. This will be effective immediately. I have taken the role on after being approached by the club committee and will replace Andrew Graham. Andy will continue to support me and will still be responsible for all Club Sponsorship. My immediate brief is to strengthen the senior playing base of the club and also set up a Colts section to bridge the gap between the Mini Junior Section and the Senior side of the club. I will be speaking to a number of you in the next few weeks to action this. I have a number of ideas on how to improve the club but would still welcome all comments and views from you the club supporters. Please feel free to talk to me at the club or alternatively drop me an e-mail via the club and I will respond as quickly as possible.

Regards

Gareth (Pike) Dyer

It was amusing to read a review of our website in the Aspatria program. Whilst it was somewhat tongue in cheek the comments made show that our problems and requirements are the same for all clubs at our level. I would of course like to thank the program editor for taking time to read 'the excellent club site' (his words not mine!) and thank all my many readers for their positive input!!

Well what a weekend!!!

Despite a massive team effort from the 1st XV on Saturday we again slipped to a defeat against a strong Penrith outfit. The margin of defeat was a little harsh on the boys who can look back on a spirited display. The turning point came early in the game when with the Burn leading by 7-0 a superb movement by the home side was cynically brought to an end by a professional foul in front of the visitors posts. On another day a penalty try and sin-bin may have resulted but alas when the lucks against you, you only get a penalty. To add insult to injury this was then missed and Penrith re-grouped to score two first half tries. On a brighter note Barclay Roberts and Nick Barnes both made their full 1st XV debuts and they will now both be pressing for starting places over the coming weeks.

The 2nd XV enjoyed a fine victory at home to Rochdale by 19-0, thus putting the problems of recent weeks behind them. This encouraging display can only build confidence for the coming weeks.

The Extra A XV enjoyed a remarkable comeback in their fixture at Fleetwood. Despite trailing 26-0 at half time an amazing second half comeback saw them clinch a 33-26 victory with a try in the dying seconds. Some performance!!!!

Finally to cap it off, it would be most unlike me not to mention a superb victory for Wales in the big game on Saturday evening. Whilst I'm sure the result wasn't to the liking of the majority who watched the game in the club, it was great to see such a full turnout. I'm sure we all agree the big screen was a popular move. We will look to repeat this for the England vs Scotland game on the 19th March which has a 6pm kick off, and will scan the fixture list for other suitable opportunities in the meantime.

Saturday's scheduled 2nd XV League game away at Warrington had to be cancelled as we were unable to field a side. The continuation of the 1st XV's injury problems and a lack of availability due to work commitments were the main reasons behind the team only having 9 players by Thursday nights selection meeting. All of this was in spite of us being able to field a 3rd XV for their fixture at home to Bolton. The result was of course rendered inconsequential as under league rules, it cannot stand due to the cancellation of the 2nd XV fixture.

Whilst a number of useful comments about the situation were made, I have to say the moronic comments of one or two were not helpful and showed a lack of respect for both the situation and the people handling it. I would say to these individuals that if they feel they can do a better job than the current incumbents then please by all means volunteer for the positions and I would be delighted to receive their input. If however those people aren't volunteering their services (and I suspect they are not) then I would ask them to keep their comments to themselves as they are no use to me or anyone else who is trying to sort out the situation to everyone's benefit.

I would of course like to hear all constructive points of view that can help resolve this situation. I would be grateful if this can be filtered through to all players so that we can avoid a repeat of this exercise in future.

Pike

This week the club will take delivery of a new RAM scrummaging machine. This will replace the current Predator machine which the club has had for a number of years. Ian Geary has recommended the machine as it will allow him to continue to work to improve the senior scrummaging performance.

Those who watched on Saturday will have seen how powerful the Rochdale scrum was and how hard we worked to contain it. This is an area Ian is keen to improve on and no doubt an amount of 'breaking in' of the new facility will begin this week!!!!

We are disappointed to announce that influential scrum half and 1st XV Vice Captain Paul Bleasdale has left the club. He has decided to accept an offer to return to his previous club Preston Grasshoppers.

Whilst this is obviously disappointing for all concerned at Blackburn RUFC it was decided that it was in both the clubs and the players best interests to allow him to move. A club source said: 'We have made every attempt to retain Paul's services despite him receiving a number of offers from elsewhere. We felt we had put paid to Preston's interests last summer when Paul committed himself to the club but we were always aware that he was leaving to go travelling at the end of the season anyway. This now gives other players a great chance of making the Number 9 shirt their own and we will continue to work hard as a squad to move away from the bottom of the table'.

No announcement has yet been made about whether a replacement Vice Captain will be appointed.

First and foremost may I wish our many players, supporters, sponsors and members a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!! We hope that you have an enjoyable and restful festive period and look forward to seeing you down at Ramsgreave Drive in the New Year.

However can I remind all players wishing to be considered for 1st XV selection that training will continue on both Tuesday and Thursday evenings throughout the Christmas period.

It is with regret that we announce that Justin Swingler has announced that he is unfortunately unable to play for Burn in the second half of the season.

Justin who has been enjoying a fine first season with the club as openside with the 2nd XV, is moving down south due to work commitments. He will no doubt still be visiting us from time to time and hopes to return next season. We wish him well and look forward to his speedy return!!

I'm sorry to report that 6 players dropped out of Saturdays 2nd XV fixture late on Friday and early Saturday and this left the travelling squad with only 14 players. This is obviously totally unacceptable and makes the job of both captain Steve Jones and the other remaining players incredibly difficult. It also has a knock on effect to the 3rd XV which then under the league rules have to release players to the 2nd XV to maintain their fixture.

Whilst it is sometimes unavoidable to make yourself unavailable at a late stage, may I remind players that if they think they won't be able to play that they make this known before Thursday nights final selection meeting. We cannot have this situation arising in future. This indicates a lack of respect to Steve and frustrates him in the valuable hard work he puts in on the 2nd XV behalf.

The 1st XV fixture against Bowden RFC at Ramsgreave Drive scheduled for the 8th January has been postponed. Following a mistake by the RFU fixtures committee our previous game away at Bowden had originally been meant to be a home fixture. Therefore having already obtained sponsorship we have been given the option of rearranging this and having consulted both the coaching staff and orignal sponsors we have decided to play the game on a designated weekend in March. We will now consult Bowden to confirm the exact date and details will appear shortly.

Following the rearrangement of the Bowden game the 1st XV are not now scheduled to play until the 22nd January. This is obviously quite a considerable gap and Ian Geary has asked that some friendly fixtures be arranged to allow him the chance to work with the squad prior to our next league game.

We will be looking into the pool and details will be posted on the site over the coming week or two.

As you are hopefully aware the club has been in talks to secure an overseas player to boost the playing resources of the First XV Squad. Thanks to the generous support of a number of club members we were able to make an offer to an Australian player attached to the Queensland Reds Academy to come and join the club for the remainder of the season. This offer was accepted but unfortunately due to unforeseen problems at the player’s end, the player in question was forced to withdraw his acceptance. The club has therefore identified suitable replacements and an offer has now been made to an alternative player. We are hoping that this will lead to them joining us in the near future. We will keep you updated but in the meantime if anybody feels able to add their support to this, either by way of sponsorship or through any other means of assistance then please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Regards

Pike