Town's rugby club is looking to build for a brighter future (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Town's rugby club is looking to build for a brighter future

Cirencester RFC held their annual meeting and player awards last week when the club reported on the season just finished and the year's accounts to the end of March.

The chairman, Simon Collyer-Bristow, mentioned further extensive work completed in the clubhouse; a continued improvement in playing numbers and subscriptions; improved bar revenues; extra-curricular fund-raising and thanked the VPs and sponsors for their continued support.

Although the club is now in a relatively sound fiscal position, there are a number of primary areas in need of maintenance and investment.

The chairman also reported on the relegation of CRFC to Gloucester One this season and made clear that it was the intention of the executive and coaching staff to focus attention and effort on playing matters and on-field success next season.

He also told the well-attended meeting that next season, Cirencester RFC intend to field a Colts U19s side in order to build a natural bridge between the club's thriving youth section and senior rugby and to attract new youngsters to the club.

The executive for 2004/5 will be very similar to last season and the only changes are: secretary, Phil Farro; sponsorship and marketing, Sue Hitchcock, and club captain, Tim Thompson.

Retiring secretary and club captain Chris Thorn, 1st XV captain Paul Rowley and 3rd XV captain Dave Crouch were thanked for their valuable contributions throughout the previous year.

Next season, Paul Mason and Chris Priestner will captain the 2nd and 3rd XVs respectively.

Cirencester RFC awards were presented by legendary ex-All Black No 8 and captain, Wayne Shelford, guest of honour at the annual Vets' Night match and dinner last week.

Recipients are as follows: top try scorer, Will McArthy; most improved player, Dave Miles; players' player, Mark Brereton; clubman of the year, Mike Timbrell; president's award, Dave Crouch and family.

The Vets beat the club 15-12 in the match preceding the dinner with Buck Shelford scoring for the club.

Diners and were well entertained by guest speaker Jerry Thomas who spoke for over one hour on many topics.

And this was believed to have been one of the best Vets' Nights for many a year.