Pursue your passion

ENHANCED SPORTS PERFORMANCE PROGRAMME

4 Welcome from Anthony Hoskisson

6 How it all began

8 OAKS interview with Mr Jones

11 Your memories

13 OAKS interview with Mr Rudd

“After a year’s hiatus, I am beyond delighted to once again welcome everyone to the incomparable clash of the Arnoldians and Lidunians. Sport might be the winner, but our amazing community will always come out on top!”

David Harrow, Headmaster

www.akslytham.com

I welcome you this afternoon to the Woodlands wearing three different hats!

Firstly this is a great event that supports Fylde RFC on what would normally be a quiet Boxing Day, which the Club is delighted to host. Some of you will remember that historically this was the day that Fylde played Preston Grasshoppers, where many a good day was had, and the rivalry reminds me of the one between today’s two teams. This annual fixture was a casualty of the rugby union game going professional and the introduction of Leagues.

We owe a great deal of gratitude to the founders of this match Paddy Dowling (Old Arnoldians) and the late Michael Pemberton (Old Lidunians) for coming up with the inspiration to pull the two teams together.

Over the years it has been great to see so many former pupils from both schools turn out for their respective teams (The oldest being age 52). Phill Rudd and Robbie Jones have brought many memories back to those who have played and attended having coached many of them. It is great to see you both again this year. The passion which is displayed from both teams takes me back to the many matches that I played in between the 2 schools.

I hope that all of those who attend appreciate the contribution of the many volunteers who put in endless effort to make this event happen, from arranging the teams to liaising with Fylde, to running the gate and the raffle. All funds raised during the day are distributed amongst the former pupils’ associations and used to provide funding for various activities/projects at school.

A special thanks must go to all the players for turning out today, we hope you enjoy the after-match frivolities and catching up with old friends! Enjoy the beer and food (sponsored by the Old Arnoldians).

I believe that there is no other school in the United Kingdom that can boast of holding such an event during the festive period, long may it continue.

All the best for the New Year.

Anthony Hoskisson

President of Fylde Rugby Club, Chairman of the Old Arnoldians and The Oaks (former pupils of AKS)