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Chairman’s Welcome
Welcome to Amersham and Chiltern’s online match programme. A particular welcome to the players, officials, and supporters of our visitors.
After promotion last year, our 1st XV play in the Regional 1 South East league of the RFU’s London and South-East Division. This is Level Five of the RFU pyramid and provides a standard of rugby that is very testing for a club from a relatively small town like Amersham. We are proud to compete here.
Thanks to the vagaries of RFU administration, our 2nd XV is in the South-West Division, and play in the Counties 2 Tribute Bucks, Berks and Oxon South competition. Like the 1st XV, they were promoted last year.
The Third XV play in an informal competition for Bucks third teams, usually under lights on a Friday evening. They provide competitive but social rugby for those who cannot commit to weekly league matches and training.
Like most clubs, we are always looking for new players. If you would like to join in, at any level, please contact our Director of Rugby, Pete Gibson, or get in touch through the club website. Alternatively, go old school and ask at the bar, or speak to anyone involved with one of the teams. You will be very welcome.
As well as our adult sides, we run extraordinarily successful Mini and Junior Sections, providing rugby for age groups from
Under 6 to Under 18. Last year we won the County Cup at every age group. The club is absolutely buzzing on a Sunday, when training and matches take place. If you have a child who would like to try rugby or one who already plays, please contact Ryan Westmacott (Minis) or Richard Clifford (Juniors) - or just bring your boy or girl along.
If you have five minutes before the game starts, please flick through the other pages of this programme and check out our fantastic sponsors. They are all great local companies; without their support it would be very difficult for us to continue. If you could use any of them, and mention where you saw their name, you would be doing the club and the game a real service.
Along with the rugby, we have a full calendar of social events, details of which can be seen elsewhere in this programme, on the website, or on the posters in the clubhouse. Whatever your level of interest in rugby, it’s a great club to be a member of, and we’d love to have you join us.
Huw Thomas Chairman
President: Peter Kenyon; Chairman: Huw Thomas; Hon Sec: Ralph Hayward; Hon Treasurer: Chris Tavender; Membership Secretary: Sandra Hitchman; Director of Rugby: Pete Gibson; Mini Chairman: Ryan Westmacott; Junior Chairman: Richard Clifford
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The Centenary Fund
For the next100 years
The centenary of our great club will be marked by many events at the club during the season 2024-25. We are an ambitious, friendly and successful community club providing an exceptional and inclusive rugby and social experience to all our members of all ages and backgrounds.
We are entirely dependent on the support of our members and many generous sponsors. The annual cost of running a big sports club is considerable and we always need to spend large sums on clubhouse and ground maintenance.
The Centenary Fund has the target of raising £200,000 and we hope that members past and present will support this project - it will make so much difference to our club and benefit all our members. The Fund will be used exclusively to support key projects around the club, including:
• Clubhouse refurbishment and upgrade
• Extended patio area with multi-weather surface
• Pitch and floodlight improvements
• Resurface north car park
• Improved gym facilities
• Expanded solar panelling
Please support the club by donating at JustGiving/The Centenary Fund - and please tick the Gift Aid option as the club receives an additional 25% on top of your donation.
For donations over £1000, please pay directly into the Fund’s bank, complete a Gift Aid declaration and let me know via email. Fund bank: Amersham & Chiltern RFC, sort 40-2417, account 2266 4879. Any queries, please email.
Peter Osborne Chair,
The Centenary Fund posborne@osbornesamuel.com
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Tring led the sing-song as Chiltern provide a catchy chorus
‘Sing a song of sixpence - a pocket full of rye
Four and twenty blackbirds baked in a pie
When the pie was opened - the birds began to singWasn’t that a dainty dish - to set before the King’
Sing a song of sixpence -
written sometime in the 16th century by a tree cutter from a land far far a way
“Digger Day !”
Way, way back, many centuries ago, not long after the bible began (no not that song!) it was the norm apparently to make pies and fill them with live birds to surprise those who cut into them and serve them.
And so it was to be that our 1st team once again graced the Tring turf during our long awaited return to Cow Lane (beef pie), there was always a chance that A&C could produce a ‘surprise’ and even defeat a wellestablished Level 5 side like Tring.
To give us a chance we travelled with quite an impressive travelling support of all
shapes, sizes and age. They were spread around the natural amphitheater, that is Cow Lane and had plenty of cheer mixed with a few sighs throughout what was a very engaging and highly competitive match.
The Tring crowd were a tad slow in warming up, raising a loud cheer for their own boys and must have been preserving their energy for later on rather than for the arrival of Chiltern.
There was a tension in the air, which was increased on 11 mins after kick off, when
Joe Batt fin-ished an excellent Chiltern forwards move with a well-deserved opening Chiltern try (0-5).
Tring though responded immediately with some good territory gained from a good kick resulting in a try in the corner in response (5-5).
After 30 minutes and after some end to end probing it was Tring again showing their level 5 pedi-gree with a well taken converted try (12-5). I think there was then an expectation that Tring would pull away. Not a chance!
It was our try scoring stalwart Jordan Scott ‘pouching the pill’ from a maul and going over the line confidently to ensure parity at 12-12.
Just to keep matters bubbling though and all credit to Tring they then finished the half with an-other maul related converted try.
Half Time: 19-12
Yet again it was one of those ‘we need the next score’ moments. Would we, or wouldn’t we? Well, we didn’t :( and in one of the jammiest moments of rugby there was some mis-judgements in both attack and defense leading to a kick charge down and an easy touch down try and successful conversion for Tring (26-12). A defining moment, I think.
Then on 56 minutes in was plucky wee Tim Hayes taking on the Tring defense and bundling him-self over the line for a great response and a cut into the deficit with a sound conversion (26-19). An immediate response from Tring after some Chiltern carelessness meant again the gap was widened (33-19).
For a bit of variety Tring then kicked a penalty (36-19) before on 72 minutes scoring their final try of the day and conversion (43-19).
MATCH REPORT
Deservedly though it was A&C finishing in some style with excellent discipline and 2 further tries - one converted to ensure an entirely respectable (43-31 finish).
No Cow Lane surprise but another gold star bagged for the Chiltern Cherubs and a wee 9th place in the gang of 12 going into match 4 in the Big Brother House.
Man of the Match: Undoubtedly Mike Everett. He tackled like a demon and shone like a light-house gently guiding
ships in on a foggy night. Thoughts are very much with Kasper Struger, one of our 2 Romanian Internationals, suffering a dislocated shoulder after a tackle on a pretty firm field of dreams. I hear, hopefully, no aggravating factors and an expected speedy recovery.
Some great hospitality followed with some Tring local nectar being downed on a sunny Hertford-shire evening.
MATCH REPORT
Next week: It’s plant pots and compost at the ready to welcome the gardeners of Letchworth Garden City.
Although a team we traditionally beat by all accounts they have developed into an impressive top of the league outfit . We will have to be at our best and may even be in our new Centenary Kit. Will it stay white for long? We will see.
See you there.
Team:
1. Razvan Dranca
2. Joe Batt
3. Charlie Swerling
4. Harry Bradshaw
5. Jacques O’Driscoll
6. Jordan Scott
7. Mike Everett
8. Kazeem Olayinka
9. Alex Bower
10. Ben Harris
11. Kasper Struger
12. Aaron Lewis
13. Dan Kingsley (C)
14. Noah Jarvis
15. Ben Pothecary
16. Doug McGregor-Smith
17. Chris Joyce
18. Tim Hayes
FROM THE TOUCHLINE
by Huw Thomas
Today at Chiltern is not all about the rugby. As the first event of our Centenary programme, we are commemorating the eightieth anniversary of Operation Market Garden, and the heroism of our former player John Grayburn, who was awarded a posthumous VC for his bravery on the bridge at Arnhem. We are hoping to have a representative of the Parachute Regiment with us for the occasion. Proud as we are of Jack, a comparison of the names under the photograph of the 1938-39 team and the names on the nearby board in memoriam will show you the extent of the sacrifice made by that special generation; lest we forget.
The memorial lunch, brilliantly organised by Chris Smith, happens to coincide with our annual Vets Day. A few, though not all, of those sitting down will have ‘enjoyed’ a game of walking/touch rugby in the morning, so don’t be surprised if you see a few recumbent figures dotted around the clubhouse this afternoon. Some of the guys are celebrating big birthdays this year and have generously offered to subsidise the beer; many happy (approximate) returns to Richard Bobbett, Jonathan Royals and Spike Stevens.
Of course, there is a game to be played as well. We welcome the players, officials and supporters of Letchworth Garden City RFC, who, like us, are celebrating one hundred years of existence this season. They have had a tremendous start to 2024-25, winning all three of their games so far by large margins, and they stand joint top of the league. They will certainly provide a tough test for our lads.
Welcome to Arnold Funeral Service Match Day Lunch
Our 1st XV have played three games this season, and, unfortunately, we have lost them all. However, the three teams we have played are already at the top end of the table (currently third, fourth and fifth) and we have been competitive each time. As I reported last time, Sudbury were a very good side. Southend were a significantly strengthened team compared to the one we played towards the end of last season, but we matched them for much of the game, until they snatched victory with the last play of the game. Our neighbours Tring were beatable but perhaps too experienced and streetwise for us. We scored five tries against them, to go with the four we recorded the previous week, and we have accumulated enough bonus points to be placed ninth of twelve in the league table, so it’s a far from disastrous start.
The 2nd XV have taken ten points from their last two games. They put sixty-nine points on Thatcham, and last week recorded a walkover when Crowthorne couldn’t raise a side to come to us. It should have been Crowthorne’s first team, as it was Thatcham’s, so it’s disappointing, and alarming, that the opposition can be so weak after the lads worked so hard for promotion last year. Today, they travel to Tadley for what is sure to be a sterner test. By the time you read this, the revived 3s will have played their second game last night, under lights at High Wycombe.
There are no games next week, however, on the Sunday we welcome 1,400 minis players to our 50th Minis Festival. The Saturday after is the day of the Centenary Dinner, which will be a fantastic occasion. If I don’t see you this afternoon, I shall see you there. HUW
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UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT
AARON LEWIS
‘Aaron Pendragon Van Gogogoch Lewis’
I’ve always been told since I was a wee boy to always be watchful of the Welsh. They are a proud people, a Celtic Tiger within a land breeding many sheep. Wales is distinct with a hardened shell around the isolation and mystery in the middle.
I’m both relieved and proud that Aaron has allowed me access to his penthouse suite in Amersham to enjoy some toasted cheese, seaweed, and some rare bits and bobs washed down with lashings of the world renowned Penderyn Welsh Whisky.
Aaron is hesitant to offer me a seat preferring to stand. He shows me out to his roof top terrace, and we take in the Amersham-on-the-hill view. He does not give much away and is dressed in Amersham colours; red and white and as always, he is dynamite!
I try to understand his expansive collection of tattoos on all limbs. They will have a Welsh theme but without my glasses on I can’t really read or understand them. They are not red though and a tasteful Scottish dark blue. I bet one is a big cuddly dragon.
Aaron was born in Wales, and I reckon he’s about 30. At his birthing there was a view out to a rugby pitch. ‘I felt that rugby passion Andy, from the year dot’.
Aaron does not recognise age explaining that you are as old as you feel and that he feels young and even unspoilt and virginal. He will not be probed on it. He is a man who is first matters pomegranate stick stabbing the individual seeds before placing them on his scalelike tongue. Roasted parsnips are a joy
He does not recognise football, and I feel his irritation when I ask him about
me singing the praises of one Scott Gibbs remembering his hop step and jump through the English at Wembley.
Aaron loves and adores singing and has signed up to the local Amersham Church Choir. He shows me his gown and song book. With hips and a voice, apparently like Tom Jones, he feels he could succeed as a concert artist at some point soon. He sings a verse of ‘Hen Wad Fy Nhadau’ and made me cry.
Out walking, it would be with a Labrador, whilst sucking an aniseed twirl. He is a Bublé boy especially at Christmas and will not be seen entertaining either X Factor or Eurovision. Shame on you Aaron.
Aaron is a folder of toilet paper adamant that it allows an extended reach. I didn’t clarify what was meant. He likes a suck rather than the chew of a sweetie and varies his personal bits attire between pants and boxers. ‘It’s dependent Andy on my mood or activity’. Again, I stay silent.
The terrace is a sun trap, and I feel quite hot. He also makes me blush. Aaron radiates fun and is undoubtedly his ‘own boy’. Welsh fire at this heart and an ice bath at his core with a smile to die for.
Centre, super sub and kicker, Aaron Lewis we salute you!
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SPONSORS AND ADVERTISERS
Why do we need Sponsors and Advertisers?
The rugby club is run as a charity and in a good year the income from subs and the clubhouse events and sponsors means we just about break even.
This season we celebrate 100 years of our active presence in the local community. The senior club was founded in 1924 and just as importantly we were one of the pioneer clubs who started mini rugby 50 years ago. We continue to provide a wonderful rugby experience for players and supporters of all ages.
Peter, pictured here, always in his A&C attire, chatting on match day
Our loyal members are very supportive and over the years we have done various fundraising schemes to improve every aspect of the club. The clubhouse itself was the biggest and others have followed such as the solar panels, the new car park and of course the borehole. All of these investments make it possible to start the season.
Incidentally with our energy costs increasing dramatically we need to focus on ways to become more energy efficient. Pitch maintenance is another big expense, with an extra £20,000 spent this summer on more ground’s maintenance work and nearly £30,000 on clubhouse repairs. We continually invest and the Centenary fundraising offers a great opportunity to make more progress. One reason for doing this is to make the club house the kind of place people will want to use for events, from private parties to corporate away days.
Of course, our sponsors and advertisers are always welcome at the club for lunch on home match days.
So, without the support of our sponsors and advertisers it would just not be possible to contemplate the level of capital expenses we face every year. We have a huge responsibility to our members and to the wider community, we get no external support even though we are one of the biggest sports clubs in the area and provide outstanding pastoral care and specialist coaching to players of all ages and their coaches too.
We recognise that in return for the fantastic support we get we need to work with our sponsors and advertisers to see how we can help them.
Ruthie Brockett, our Sponsorship & Publicity Manager, will be delighted to hear from you with ideas and suggestions. Please contact her on sponsorchilternrugby@gmail.com.
Most importantly we want our members to enjoy using the products and services in this programme.
