Graham Messenger died on Monday, just before his 90th birthday. Graham joined the club in support of his son Richard in the 1980s and he stayed on to be a regular supporter and a member of the “kitchen cabinet” for many years, carrying out maintenance to the clubhouse and the field. His main forte was marking the pitches, although not necessarily with straight lines.

Dick Ashley, our oldest member, also died on Monday, aged 93. He had been a member of the club since his days at Warwick School. He joined in 1950 - before Queen Elizabeth succeeded to the throne - and whilst not a regular first team player, our records show the he was “capped” in December 1952 and he played regularly for the second XV until injury cut his career short. Thereafter, he supported the teams and he still was a regular attender, home and away, last season. He was Honorary Secretary of the club from 1965-67 and President from 1983-85. He was also an Honorary Life Member. On the approach to his 90th birthday, four years ago, Dick wrote a note of some of his memories and this is attached in memory of him.

We will miss them both and may they rest in peace. Details will be posted when available

On a brighter note, new Club Secretary, Richard Watkins, was contracted by Keith Savage last week and with Charlie Gardner they met up to renew links with our England and British Lions international. Keith, very generously, gave us a stash of memorabilia which we will be looking through and it is hoped that we will be able to get him up to the club on his return from South Africa later in the season.

Talking about the season, you probably be aware, that on Friday evening, the RFU announced that the start of the new season would be delayed, due to the state of pitches, the need for clubs to be able to plan on an even basis and to protect players. This means that the league season will now not start before Monday 21 September. The following applies and updated guidance will no doubt follow

• No competitive league matches before 21 September - this incudes Regional and Counties leagues organised by the RFU
• Leagues/competitions managed by local organising committees such as second team leagues, colts and age group and ladies will be expected to follow the same advice
• In order help clubs prepare for the season, friendly matches can be played where possible, subject to local circumstances, player readiness and safety,
• Training can continue subject to pitch assessment of each session
• All rugby activity taking place outside of league matches is subject to ongoing review

The first trial game for the coming season was due to be held at home to Nottingham Moderns on Saturday ( 22 August) with the first league games at home to Ledbury (12 September) and away at Earlsdon (19 September) These games are postponed in accordance to the above advice. The fixtures will need to be adjusted as conditions return to normal but as it stands our first league game will be on 26 September at home to Evesham and we will be trying to fix up some friendlies ahead of this, subject to conditions

The Club Centenary Ball is on Saturday 5 September at the club. It is more or less a sell-out but if anyone wants to come, please get in touch with Mel Greenway on 07971 547827 asap

This week - the club will be open as usual – Friday from 5.00 for early evening drinks and Saturday from 4.00.

Another Centenary event is the Club “It’s a Knock Out”. This was due to be held in July but was postponed. It will now be held on the afternoon of Sunday 13 September, subject to ground conditions . It is open to the whole club and teams will be 6-10 people from age 11-16, or 16 and over. Entry fee is £10 per person. To enter - contact John Brear, Lucy Ramsbottom, or Hayley White

John Lyons, 01926 855787