Harlow Rugby Club Celebrates 50 Years.

Harlow Rugby Club celebrated the 50^th anniversary of its first-ever match in style last weekend.  Two days of rugby and social events culminated in a match between the Presidents’ Select XVs from Harlow and their opponents of 50 years ago, Brentwood.  The Club would like to thank everyone who worked so hard to make the events a success, including the officers and players from Brentwood who were totally committed to the occasion thereby contributing to a fitting climax to a great weekend.

The celebrations began with the pre-match lunch on Saturday, hosted by Whiskers Solicitors, for many years valued sponsors of the Club and the First XV.  The Club was very pleased to welcome John Roberts of Whiskers and his guests to Ram Gorse.  Prior to lunch John unveiled a plaque in memory of John Hurley who did so much for the Club as Coach, Chairman and President.  John’s widow Yvonne and their son David were guests at lunch.  After lunch the President of Harlow Rugby Club, Mike Ryland, presented Whiskers with a framed photograph of the First Team, a current First Team shirt and a replica of the original 1955 shirts which have been produced to mark the anniversary.  Also at the lunch were K M M Mitu and Abdul Salam of the Essence of India Restaurant, the sponsors of the Ladies Team.  Mike presented them with framed photographs of the team together with 1955 replica shirts.

Following a convincing win over Sudbury by 48 points to 5, a very large number of past and present members and their guests converged on the clubhouse for the 50^th Anniversary Dinner.  The Club was delighted to welcome Robert Horner, a former President of the RFU who held office at the time of England’s World Cup win.  A Kentish man, Robert, a retired solicitor and County standard referee, joined the RFU committee in 1983.  One of his many achievements was to establish the National Disciplinary Committee.  The guest speaker for the evening was former Bath, England and British Lions prop forward Gareth Chilcott who many remember spoke at a Club dinner some years ago and returned by popular demand.

During the dinner Mark Bracewell, son of Ron and Tim Bracewell, reminded members and guests of his father’s total commitment to the Club, as a founder member, Hon Secretary, referee, Chairman and President.  A plaque to Ron’s memory was then unveiled by Robert Horner.

Robert Horner congratulated Harlow RUFC on reaching its 50 year anniversary, its commitment to the game and to the local community.

On Sunday prior to the game against Brentwood, guests of the Club enjoyed a traditional roast beef dinner. Among those present were David Lockwood President of Bishops Stortford Rugby Club, John Creasey President of Hertford Rugby Club, Bob Thomas President of Brentwood accompanied by 4 other club officers and Chris Rodgers of the London of Rugby Football Referees.  The welcoming address was delivered by Club Chairman Chris Locke and the President of Brentwood Bob Thomas replied on behalf of the guests.