Spoonews Spring/Summer 2018

SPOONEWS SPRING/SUMMER 2018

CELEBRATING

YEARS ACT NOW TO BEAT THE DATA DEADLINE Opt-in to continue to hear from Wooden Spoon – turn to page 9 for details

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Become a member of Wooden Spoon for just £5 a month and help us change children’s lives Members can: • Win rugby tickets • Hear from our projects • Get a free gift • Receive our bi-annual magazine And most importantly, you will be helping change the lives of children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage across the UK & Ireland.

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WELCOME

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BIRTHDAY CHEER

S YOU may have probably guessed from the cover of this edition of Spoonews, 2018 marks a milestone birthday for the children’s charity of rugby.

From our humble beginnings in the wake of a Five Nations drubbing – as recalled by co-founder Nigel Timson on pages 24-25 – Wooden Spoon has recorded some incredible highlights over the past 35 years.

And although we continue to be inspired by our rugby roots, our performance is far removed from that dismal England display of 1983.

Since our founding, we’ve distributed in excess of £24 million, helped improve the lives of more than one million young people and we are incredibly fortunate not to have to be nostalgic when it comes to success stories.

As demonstrated by the many tales of transformation in this issue, our fantastic form has stood the test of time and we continue to have plenty of cause for celebration.

In our 35th year we are in good financial shape, our Partner Club Programme and schools campaign (pages 35-37) are flourishing and the array of big names attending this year’s ball (page 7) shows rugby’s warm embrace of the charity is as tight as ever.

We also have much to look forward to. Our new chairman Quentin Smith (page 23) promises to tackle his tenure at the top with the same enthusiastic, can-do attitude as his

predecessor John Gibson (pages 20-21) and in respect of fundraising we have some incredibly lofty plans in place (pages 38-39).

On a personal note, I am delighted to have been officially appointed as the charity’s first female chief executive officer and am relishing the chance to contribute to the superb squad that has assembled in support of Wooden Spoon.

Good form does not come by chance and clocking up 35 years is down to a phenomenal team effort. Without the tireless endeavours of our trustees, members, regional chairs, their committees and our supporters, this charity would simply not exist. So to all of you, a huge thank you.

We may be Wooden Spoon, but with you on our side we will never find ourselves – as David Trick did with England all those years ago – in the wooden spoon position.

With that in mind, I can’t stress enough how important it is for you to grant us the ability to keep communicating with you in the wake of imminent changes to data protection laws (page 9). Please opt-in and stay in touch.

Sarah Webb Chief Executive Officer

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“Wooden Spoon spends its money wisely and puts it where it is most beneficial to the community.”

– Patriot Peter Cross tells Spoonews why he's happy to fly the flag for the children's charity of rugby as well as England (pages 26-31)

Picture: Graeme Main

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In this issue...

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Kick-off HAVING A BALL Stars of rugby shine at showpiece fundraiser

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SURF'S UP Ulster funding helps to create coastal inclusion

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CONTINUE TO CONNECT Act now to beat the data protection deadline

10 HOUSE PARTY Valued supporters hailed at high-profile venue

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Features

Funded projects

20 FAMILY TIES

42 A DIFFERENT LEAGUE

Outgoing chair reveals the appeal of our club colours

Wheelchairs provide sporting opportunities for youngsters

23 HOOKED

43 FIT FOR PURPOSE

Former Premiership chief bites at chance to lead charity

26 FLAG BEARER We meet the man beneath Mr England's top hat

32 THE AMERICAN DREAM Cyclist shares his inspiration for epic coast-to-coast ride

CONTENTS

High-energy gym equipment in high demand

45 ADVENTUROUS ADDITION Donation boosts super Scottish charity

49 KINGS OF THE HILL Primary pupils benefit from purpose-built play area

Extra time 52 CHILDREN'S CHAMPIONS Rugbytots director details passion for partnership

53 KIT COLLEAGUES Sportswear specialist shows its support with strip donation

46 ALL SET FOR SCIENCE Colchester school's magnificent makeover

SPOONEWS SPRING/SUMMER 2018

CELEBRATING

15 SADDLE UP David Trick on swapping lineouts for Lycra

38 HEAD FOR HEIGHTS? Wooden Spoon announces lofty ambitions for 2019

47 SEAL OF APPROVAL Students give thumbs up to Kent sensory space YEARS ACT NOW TO BEAT THE DATA DEADLINE Opt-in to continue to hear from Wooden Spoon – turn to page 9 for details

PUBLISHED BY TYLERBALE COMMUNICATIONS Email: info@tylerbale.co.uk Tel: 01252 714 870 Write: 10 Borelli Yard, Farnham, Surrey GU9 7NU All rights reserved.

ON THE COVER Birthday special: We salute 35 years of raising funds to help positively transform the lives of young people and children in the UK and Ireland

WOODEN SPOON – THE CHILDREN’S CHARITY OF RUGBY Email: charity@woodenspoon.org.uk Tel: 01252 773 720 Fax: 01252 773 721 Write: Sentinel House, Ancells Business Park, Harvest Crescent, Fleet, Hampshire GU51 2UZ Contact details for our regions can be found online on page 20 and at woodenspoon.org.uk/near-you

Content © Wooden Spoon 2018. Registered address: Sentinel House, Ancells Business Park, Harvest Crescent, Fleet, Hampshire, GU51 2UZ. Charity Registration No 326691 (England & Wales) and SC039247 (Scotland).

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The Wooden Spoon Regatta 12 September 2018

sunsail.co.uk woodenspoon.org.uk Sunsail Events, Port Solent Marina, South Lockside, Portsmouth PO6 4TJ Tel: +44 (0)23 92 222 221

Kick-off THE LATEST NEWS FROM WOODEN SPOON AND BEYOND

Star turns: Wooden Spoon ambassadors were out in force at the 2018 Rugby Ball, at London’s Park Lane Hilton, which raised more than £120,000 for the children’s charity of rugby

STARS SHINE AT SHOWPIECE BALL

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OODEN Spoon kicked off its 35th year in style as 2018’s Rugby Ball raised in excess of £120,000 to help children and young people with a disability or facing disadvantage across the UK and Ireland.

Big-name ambassadors, loyal supporters and beneficiaries of the children’s charity of rugby were among more than 400 guests at the flagship event, which was held at London’s Park Lane Hilton.

The ball allowed Wooden Spoon to pay tribute to some of its dedicated backers, including TNT, which has raised £4 million over 21

years of support (pictured above, bottom right), Rugbytots and Champagne Academy.

Former GB Wheelchair Rugby captain Steve Brown explained the significance of the Rugby Ball: “Having people in the room and letting them know what Wooden Spoon is and what it does – that is why this evening is so important.”

The proceedings were presided over by master of ceremonies Mark Durden-Smith and kicked off with music from the Bennett Memorial School Choir and Classical Reflection before Martin Bayfield hosted a stand up, sit down auction

for lots including hotel stays, wine tasting and a spa escape.

Live and silent auctions followed, with guests digging deep to bid for lots including a trip to Paris to see Ed Sheeran in concert, an ultimate tickets package for an array of music and sporting events and a host of signed memorabilia.

The evening also featured a speech from Ben Nutt and mum Joanne (pictured top right).

Ben, who has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, took part in the Wooden Spoon-supported HITZ programme and guests heard from him and Joanne about the

course’s impact.

He explained: “It changed my life by giving me an opportunity. I started off in a very low position and now, a year-and-a-half later, I’ve got the world at my feet and I can do whatever I want.”

Our thanks go to the Rugby Ball sponsors, Wooden Spoon ambassadors, and to those who donated raffle and auction prizes, without whom the evening would not have been possible. ➤ View highlights from the Rugby Ball at woodenspoon.org. uk/2018/02/13/rugby-ball-2018

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PARTNERSHIPS

SURF’S UP AT INCLUSIVE BEACH COAST lovers of all abilities will be able to enjoy action-packed seaside days out in Northern Ireland after Wooden Spoon Ulster funding helped create the country’s first fully-inclusive beach.

The children’s charity of rugby’s £18,800 donation has allowed the Mae Murray Foundation to provide a raft of equipment enabling people with different ranges of mobility to make the most of visits to Benone beach in Limavady.

The money, which builds on seed funding from Children in Need, has secured specialist kit – including hoists, changing benches, beach chairs, walkers and floating chairs – as well as Northern Ireland’s first surfboard for wheelchair users.

Wooden Spoon Ulster’s assistance has also helped to fund special matting which provides a platform for easier unloading from vehicles and transfer into beach equipment.

The inclusive beach was made possible through Mae Murray

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Foundation’s partnership with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.

The Foundation was set up by Alix Crawford in memory of her late mother, Mae Murray. Alix, whose daughter Talia has quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy, said: “There are many people, young and old, who have never felt sand running through their fingers or experienced the thrill of being in the sea, due to the inaccessibility of beaches.”

With plans to open two more inclusive beaches in Northern Ireland by the end of 2018, Alix added that the charity’s ambition is to help enable participation in leisure and social settings for everyone, regardless of their age and ability.

Sarah Webb, Wooden Spoon’s CEO, said: “Our vision is to give every child and young person, no matter what their background access to the same opportunities.

“The Mae Murray Foundation’s project at Benone beach is a great example of this in action and we are delighted to have been able to support them through the efforts of the Ulster committee.” ➤ For further information about the inclusive beach’s facilities, email info@maemurrayfoundation.org or visit www.maemurray foundation.org

woodenspoon.org.uk

KICK-OFF

YORKSHIRE

SPEAKER SPOT ON WITH SIX NATIONS PREDICTION

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COTT Hastings’ starring role at Wooden Spoon Yorkshire’s annual Six Nations dinner at Baldwins Omega restaurant in Sheffield earlier this year proved to be prophetic.

As guest speaker, the former Scotland and British and Irish Lions centre was quick to warn his largely English audience that victory for Eddie Jones’ charges in the 2018 Calcutta Cup was not a certainty.

Within 90 seconds of picking up the microphone at the event, which celebrated the 25th anniversary of the founding of Wooden Spoon Yorkshire’s committee, the proud Scot reminded those present of the climax of 1990’s Five Nations tournament.

England were clear favourites to finish that championship with a clean-sweep but their Scottish hosts, with Hastings at centre, were far from obliging and claimed a 13-7 victory to

PERFECT PUNDITRY Former Scotland international Scott Hastings warned England fans of a Calcutta Cup upset during Wooden Spoon Yorkshire’s Six Nations dinner

clinch the Grand Slam for themselves.

Pointing to Scotland’s excellent form in the latter half of 2017, Hastings went on to predict that his nation were again well-positioned to derail the Auld Enemy’s sweet chariots.

And so it proved the case at an exultant Murrayfield in February when Scotland scored three tries to earn a thrilling first victory over England since 2008.

International rivalries aside, the dinner was an overwhelming success and raised £9,300 for Wooden Spoon Yorkshire, which has backed 79 local projects with £1,950,000 of funding since its formation.

The region’s most recent support of its surrounding community saw £25,000 donated to Norfolk Park School in Sheffield, which caters for children between the ages of three and 11 with profound and multiple learning difficulties, complex medical needs and autism.

Equipping the school with more facilities for fun and learning outdoors, the five-figure sum was used to finance a new inclusive playground.

CONTINUE TO CONNECT IN MAY, the rules governing data protection are changing and as a Wooden Spoon supporter this puts you in control of how we contact you in the future.

We value your contribution to improving the lives of children with a disability or facing disadvantage in your area and want to continue to share details of how your money is making a positive difference, but to do so we need you to “opt-in”.

Enclosed in this copy of Spoonews is a postcard enabling you to do just that. By completing and returning it to us in the Freepost envelope provided, you can choose whether you want to hear from us by post, email, text or telephone. You may select all or none of these options and can change your mind at any time.

Rest assured that giving us consent to contact you does not mean we will flood you with correspondence – we aim to send no more than two emails per month. These are generally our monthly

e-newsletters and updates on relevant regional events. We also promise never to share your information with third parties for marketing purposes.

Members who choose not to optin should be aware that we may still contact you for administrative purposes – such as sharing renewal information.

You can also opt-in online at woodenspoon.org.uk/opt-in (where you will need to identify yourself by entering the email address that we hold for you) or by emailing us at charity@ woodenspoon.org.uk and confirming that you would like to continue to receive emails/post/texts and calls from us.

A heartfelt thank you to all those who have previously completed a postcard or opted-in via other means – there is no need for you to do so again.

We only exist thanks to the time and generosity of our supporters, which is why we value your wishes and vow to take our fundraising and donor relationships seriously.

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Staunch supporters (from left to right): Phil Vickery MBE DL poses with Peter Hull and Aaron Phipps

NATIONAL

SUPPORTERS ENJOY HIGH-PROFILE HOUSE PARTY

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OME of Wooden Spoon’s biggest supporters came together at the House of Lords to celebrate another successful year for the children’s charity of rugby.

Ambassadors Phil Vickery, Ollie Phillips, Aaron Phipps and John Taylor were joined by corporate sponsors and our regional chairmen for the annual gathering at the prestigious venue.

Hosted by Lord Hayward – who gave a passionate speech about Wooden Spoon as well as entertaining guests

Impact Report 2016-2017 The difference you helped us make

with tales of his rugby refereeing exploits – the evening gave outgoing chairman of trustees John Gibson the opportunity to update the audience on the charity’s progress throughout 201617, which saw more than £1 million awarded to 70 projects across the UK and Ireland.

Wooden Spoon has also been working with Deloitte to develop an impact assessment tool and company representative Mike Barber explained how the project will use business

intelligence to help us better assess proposed new projects and further enhance our reporting of the impact of our work.

Special thanks go to Rickety Bridge for donating wine for the evening. ➤ Visit woodenspoon.org.uk/aboutus/publications to read our latest Impact Report (pictured left) and see how we are making a life-changing difference to children and young people in the UK and Ireland.

HERTFORDSHIRE

NEW ROOM A DELIGHT FOR THE SENSES USERS of a Bishop’s Stortford centre for people with learning difficulties have been “enthralled” by a new sensory room made possible by the generosity of the children’s charity of rugby.

Wooden Spoon Hertfordshire provided Grove Cottage, Mencap’s home in the town, with a £6,000 grant to allow it to open the facility.

Hertfordshire Chariman John Batters and Patrick Micallef (representing partner club Old Grammarians) were joined by Honorary President Ben Ransom and London Irish teammate Senitiki Nayalo for the grand unveiling of the sensory room.

Fundraising manager Rosie Wren explained that Wooden Spoon’s donation was especially welcome as although Grove Cottage is affiliated to The Royal Mencap Society, it receives no

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funding from the organisation.

She added: “This new equipment will make a massive difference to the lives of children and adults living with a learning disability and can provide both sensory stimulation and a place for relaxation. Already the room is being used on a daily basis and our members are just enthralled with it.”

Providing educational and social activities for people of all ages – including 44 per cent aged 25-and-under – Grove Cottage helps its users to avoid social isolation, build friendships and fulfil their potential while providing much-needed respite to their families. ➤ Find out what your local region has been up to at woodenspoon.org.uk/near-you

“This new equipment will make a massive difference to the lives of children and adults living with a learning disability and can provide both sensory stimulation and a place for relaxation.” woodenspoon.org.uk

KICK-OFF

LANCASHIRE

STAR SPEAKER: Guest of honour Simon Weston CBE (pictured) was among the speakers at Wooden Spoon Lancashire’s lucrative luncheon

FIVE-FIGURE FUNDRAISER

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OODEN Spoon Lancashire forged a new fundraising record after its wellsupported 19th annual luncheon made more than £32,000 for the children’s charity of rugby.

The event, held at Blackpool’s Village Hotel, was attended by 400 guests and featured Falkland’s War veteran Simon Weston as its guest of honour.

Simon, who suffered burns to nearly half of his body when his ship, RFA Sir Galahad, was bombed by Argentine planes, provided diners with a moving and inspiring speech.

The military veteran’s star turn was followed by young speakers Amanda and Tyler, who gave a first-hand account of how they have been helped

by Wooden Spoon.

Bill Beaumont, Honorary President of Wooden Spoon Lancashire, was also in attendance and joined Simon Weston to make a presentation to one of the

SCOTLAND

GRANT FUELS FANTASTIC FIT-OUT SCOTLAND prop Willem P Nel was joined by Edinburgh teammate Jason Tovey as the city’s Castlebrae Community High School unveiled its new Wooden Spoon Scotlandfunded gym.

The children’s charity of rugby – along with Edinburgh Rugby and local club Lismore – swung into action when PE teacher James McPartlin appealed for help in his mission to improve the exercise facilities at the school’s Greendykes Road campus, which caters for a diverse student population. Wooden Spoon’s grant helped to provide an overhauled gym, which was launched by a visit from Edinburgh’s high-profile players and the club’s managing director.

McPartlin said that the gym was proving an invaluable asset in allowing many of the school’s rugbyloving youngsters to do all-important strength and conditioning training.

He added: “Now they have a stateof-the-art gym to use which is fully kitted out with everything you could need. The kids have noticed a big difference and love going there.

“I can see more and more of the youngsters using it as well as community groups. I’d like to say thanks to everyone who has played a part in getting us to this stage.” ➤ Find out more about the projects we fund at woodenspoon.org.uk/ our-grants

charity’s major patrons, Roy Wilkinson of Guy’s Thatched Hamlet.

Entertainment was provided by the Singing Waiters and comedians Joey Blower and John Stiles, the son of 1966 football World Cup winner Nobby.

The record-breaking luncheon was sponsored by investment managers Hargreave Hale.

COUNTIES ANNOUNCE TWO-WHEELED TOURS INSPIRED by the overwhelming success of Wooden Spoon Eastern Counties’ Club Together ride featured in the last edition of Spoonews, Kent’s rugby community is set to take to two wheels on Sunday 3rd June.

The West Kent Club Together challenge will see cyclists tackle either a 100- or 65-mile tour of 15 of the region’s rugby clubs. Those swapping lineouts for Lycra for the ride will receive a Club Together jersey and begin and finish their chosen distance at their own rugby club.

Organisers are hoping the event emulates the community spirit demonstrated during the Eastern Counties’ 320-mile, three-day challenge, which saw hundreds of well-wishers turn out to cheer on cyclists and raised in excess of £125,000 for the children’s charity of rugby and other local causes.

Entry into the Kent event costs £50 and riders are asked to commit to raising a minimum of £100 in sponsorship.

To take part or for details of the sponsorship packages available, visit clubtogetherkent.co.uk Wooden Spoon Yorkshire’s supporters are set to saddle up the following weekend [Sunday 10th June] for the Black Sheep Big Spoon Bike Ride.

The event – now in its seventh year and run in partnership with Black Sheep Brewery – is renowned for its fabulous feedstations and offers competitors the choice of an 87- or 55-mile course, both of which start and finish at the Marsham-based brewery. Entry costs £39 and is open to those aged 16 and over.

To register as a rider or to review sponsorship options, visit bigspoonbikeride.co.uk

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ROUND UP

SUPER SEVEN

A speedy selection of news from our regions, partner clubs and beyond 1

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LASTING LEGACY

GOLFERS DRIVE FUNDS

CHARITABLE CHAMPS

A CORKING OCCASION

A MEMORIAL day for a father and son who lost their lives in 2007 while clearing flood damage at Tewkesbury Rugby Club raised £3,000 for Wooden Spoon and the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity. The event marked the tenth anniversary of the deaths of Bram and Chris Lane, who were overcome by carbon monoxide fumes from a pump they were using to get floodwater out of the club’s cellar.

Inclement weather failed to dampen spirits as 72 players raised £4,700 for the children’s charity of rugby at Wooden Spoon Eastern Counties’ sixth annual Golf Day at Stoke by Nayland Golf Club. Martin Spurr won the individual title and was joined by John Robertson, Phil Twogood and Ian Richards to also claim the team crown. The day included dinner and a speech from guest Ian Richards.

Exeter Chiefs began the defence of their maiden top-flight title with a £9,375 donation to the children’s charity of rugby. The West Country-side presented Wooden Spoon Devon with the money, which was a share of the total amount collected by the Exeter Foundation on match-days throughout the Chiefs successful 2016/2017 campaign, during its Season Launch Dinner.

Guests raised their glasses – and £725 for the children’s charity of rugby – at Wooden Spoon London’s inaugural Women in Wine event. Hosted by our Ambassador Rachael Burford, the evening celebrated the wonderful wines created by talented female winemakers and featured the know-how of award-winning UK journalist and Saturday Kitchen Live expert Jane Parkinson (pictured).

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woodenspoon.org.uk

KICK-OFF

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PERFECT PARTNERS

ADAPTABLE ARENA

ON SONG

Norwich Union RFC kicked off their participation in the children’s charity of rugby’s Partner Club Programme (#PCPfamily) by raising £529 for Wooden Spoon Eastern Counties. The generous donation was generated from ticket sales for the club’s annual firework display. Find out more about becoming a Partner Club at woodenspoon.org.uk/getinvolved/rugby-clubs

Pupils at Cardiff’s Lansdowne Primary School have been getting to grips with a new multi-use games arena after Wooden Spoon Wales funded £10,000 of the project’s £18,000 cost. The facility, which was opened by Tom Shanklin of the Cardiff Blues, Wales and British & Irish Lions, will enable the school’s 125 pupils with special educational needs to enjoy activities alongside their classmates.

Festive fundraisers braved the worst of winter’s weather to help Wooden Spoon Chilterns generate more than £1,000 at its annual Carol Cruise. Attendees got in the Christmas spirit as they enjoyed a cracking trip aboard simulated Mississippi steamer, The New Orleans. Although snow and ice prevented carols from being sung on the upper deck, renditions were solidly performed at the tables.

GET INVOLVED Do you have a story you would like featured in Super Seven? Email details to spoonews@tylerbale.co.uk

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PROJECTS

FUTURE FUNDING

Since 1983, we have committed in excess of £24 million to 650 projects and our drive to support young people has benefited more than one million lives.

The following schemes, schools and services – approved for funding during the last six months – are set to further swell these numbers...

PLAYGROUND AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES Booker Park Community School thevalefederation.com Wooden Spoon Oxfordshire

costwoldrda.org.uk Wooden Spoon Gloucestershire

Taking the reins: The children’s charity of rugby will continue its support of the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) throughout 2018. TNT Bob – pictured – is the first of 15 horses Wooden Spoon has pledged to fund in an effort to help RDA meet a growing demand for its therapeutic services

Ebor Vale RDA eborvalerda.co.uk Wooden Spoon Yorkshire

Calthorpe Academy calthorpe.bham.sch.uk Wooden Spoon West Midlands

Exeter Leukaemia Fund elfcharity.org.uk Wooden Spoon Devon

Friends of Sir Charles Parsons School scp.newcastle.sch.uk/web Wooden Spoon Northumberland

Kinfauns RDA kinfaunsstablesrda.co.uk Wooden Spoon Scotland

Long Mynd Adventure Camp longmyndadventurecamp.org.uk Wooden Spoon Shropshire

Mencap Grove Cottage mencapgrovecottage.org Wooden Spoon Hertfordshire

Orchard Primary, Language and Communication Support Centre blogs.glowscotland.org.uk/nl/orchard Wooden Spoon Scotland William Henry Smith School whsschool.org.uk Wooden Spoon Yorkshire

SENSORY ROOMS AND GARDENS Crowdys Hill School crowdyshill.swindon.sch.uk Wooden Spoon Wiltshire Fellowship of St Nicholas fsncharity.co.uk Wooden Spoon Sussex Friends of Ysgol Bryn Castell ysgolbryncastell.co.uk Wooden Spoon Wales Joy Lane Primary School joylane.kent.sch.uk Wooden Spoon Kent

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Northgate School Arts College northgate.northants.sch.uk Wooden Spoon Northamptonshire

Kirkriggs School kirkriggs-pri.glasgow.sch.uk Wooden Spoon Scotland Nexus School nexusschool.org.uk Wooden Spoon Kent

SPECIALIST EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES Gareloch RDA garelochrda.org Wooden Spoon Scotland GBWR gbwr.org.uk Wooden Spoon Castle Business & Enterprise College

castlebusinessenterprisecollege.co.uk Wooden Spoon West Midlands

Ravelrig RDA ravelrig-rda.org.uk Wooden Spoon Scotland

Chiverton RDA chivertonrda.co.uk Wooden Spoon Cornwall

Shiresmill RDA shiresmill.org Wooden Spoon Scotland

CLIC Sargent clicsargent.org.uk Wooden Spoon Scotland

The Argonauts Wheelchair SC Wooden Spoon Kent

Coleraine & District RDA rdacoleraine.co.uk Wooden Spoon Ulster Combe Pafford School combepaffordschool.co.uk Wooden Spoon Devon Cotswold RDA

Tweeddale RDA tweeddale-rda.org.uk Wooden Spoon Scotland West Leeds ARLFC pitchero.com/clubs/westleeds Wooden Spoon Yorkshire For more details, visit woodenspoon.org.uk/our-grants

woodenspoon.org.uk

KICK-OFF

SADDLE UP COMMENT

Former Bath and England star David Trick reflects on what happens when rugby players swap lineouts for Lycra WITHOUT painting too vivid a picture in the minds of readers and spoiling any meals, I am unfortunate enough to be able to attest that the vision of prop-turned-pundit David Flatman in top-to-toe cycling gear is enough to test even the strongest of stomachs.

A fellow veteran of both Bath and England, “Flats” more than lived up to his nickname when he joined myself and a group of 30-plus riders in cycling the 960 miles from John O’Groats to Land’s End in the name of the children’s charity of rugby during the summer of 2013.

While the sight of a 20-stone man shoehorned into spray-on clothing will haunt those on the ride forever, it was David’s bike that bore the real brunt of his bulk. Never has a piece of sporting equipment suffered as much as that cycle frame, which became affectionately known as “Trigger’s broom” by the Only Fools and Horses fans among the group. By the time it reached Cornwall – having carried David an average of 110 miles a day for nine consecutive days – it didn’t have an original part on it; every spoke, rim and bar had buckled and been replaced.

In David’s defence, rugby players’ physiques – particularly those belonging to forwards – are not wholly compatible with the sport of cycling. That, however, has not prevented an increasingly large number from swapping lineouts for Lycra and joining Wooden Spoon’s peloton of ex-professionals.

I strongly suspect this trend is at least partly attributable to my own reason for taking to two wheels five years ago.

Aside from some tremendous highs and unforgettable memories, rugby left me with ravaged knees that painfully protested when I tried to pursue jogging

“The significant sums being raised by supporters tackling feats of endurance by turning two wheels have become integral to the charity’s revolution.”

GET INVOLVED To find out how you can support Wooden Spoon from the saddle in your region, visit woodenspoon.org. uk/get-involved/ challenges-events

as a pastime after giving up the game.

So, in a bid to keep my waistline in check, I sought the advice of former teammate Jonathan Webb – a consultant orthopaedic surgeon – who advised surgery or cycling as possible solutions.

Given the latter option was significantly less frightening than the alternative, I soon found myself saddle shopping in the name of strengthening my quad muscles and haven’t looked back since. Whisper it quietly, but I now prefer a ride to a round of golf and part of that is down to discovering a sense of camaraderie I never expected to encounter outside of a rugby changing room. Make no mistake, cycling challenges such as John O’Groats to Land’s End, Wooden Spoon Eastern Counties’ Club Together event (see page 11) and the Prudential RideLondonSurrey 100 (see pages 26-31) demand the same togetherness and unity shown by the most successful of squads.

For those who have hung up their boots and miss the banter, cycling is as good for the soul as it is the body. I can’t help but chuckle at the memory of World Cup winner Lewis Moody going to extreme lengths to win a game of “bike and seek” during our journey south from Scotland to England’s most westerly point. The rules – so most of us thought – were harmless enough.

When it came to someone’s turn to hide, they had to bomb off from the pack and attempt to conceal their bike and self somewhere along the

upcoming route. However, what began as a means of distracting ourselves from the distance ahead ended with a famous flanker finishing 15 feet up a Cheshire tree while still astride his bike.

How Moody branched out remains a mystery, but it is a tall story that helped to keep our pedals pumping.

And as evidenced by the incredible

fundraising endeavours featured in this issue of Spoonews, cycling has benefits beyond breathing life into the battered bodies of rugby retirees. The significant sums being raised by Wooden Spoon supporters tackling feats of endurance by turning two wheels have become integral to the charity’s revolution – which is helping to positively transform the lives of children and young people with a disability or facing disadvantage across the UK and Ireland.

For those of you gearing up to take on a challenge of your own and releasing the brakes to boost the coffers of the children’s charity of rugby, I wish you the very best of luck in your switch from scrums to the saddle. Thank you, as ever, for your continued support.

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NEAR YOU

REGIONAL REACH

Want to join our growing squad? Contact your nearest neighbour below and make a difference to the lives of children in your own community...

BEDFORDSHIRE

GUERNSEY

MANCHESTER & CHESHIRE

SURREY

Chairman: Oliver Richbell bedfordshire@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairwoman: Karen Solway guernsey@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: Roger Smith manchester@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: Brian Hodges surrey@woodenspoon.org.uk

woodenspoon.org.uk/bedfordshire

woodenspoon.org.uk/guernsey

woodenspoon.org.uk/manchester-cheshire

woodenspoon.org.uk/surrey

BRISTOL & BATH

HAMPSHIRE

MERSEYSIDE

SUSSEX

Chairman: Vacant regions@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: Tony Wilkin hampshire@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: Stan Bagshaw merseyside@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: Bob Rogers sussex@woodenspoon.org.uk

woodenspoon.org.uk/bristol-bath

woodenspoon.org.uk/hampshire

woodenspoon.org.uk/merseyside

woodenspoon.org.uk/sussex

CHILTERNS

HERTFORDSHIRE

NORTHAMPTONSHIRE

ULSTER

Chairman: Ray Hague chilterns@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: John Batters hertfordshire@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: Vacant regions@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: Peter Wood ulster@woodenspoon.org.uk

woodenspoon.org.uk/chilterns

woodenspoon.org.uk/hertfordshire

woodenspoon.org.uk/northamptonshire

woodenspoon.org.uk/ulster

CORNWALL

ISLE OF MAN

NORTHUMBERLAND

WALES

Chairman: Alan Milliner cornwall@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: Allan Thompson isleofman@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: Anthony Stoker northumberland@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: Huw Thomas wales@woodenspoon.org.uk

woodenspoon.org.uk/cornwall

woodenspoon.org.uk/isle-of-man

woodenspoon.org.uk/northumberland

woodenspoon.org.uk/wales

CUMBRIA

JERSEY

NOTTINGHAMSHIRE

WARWICKSHIRE

Chairman: John Cunningham cumbria@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: Roger Trower jersey@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairwoman: Diane Orson nottingham@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: Ian Holroyd warwickshire@woodenspoon.org.uk

woodenspoon.org.uk/cumbria

woodenspoon.org.uk/jersey

woodenspoon.org.uk/nottinghamshire

woodenspoon.org.uk/warwickshire

DEVON

KENT

OXFORDSHIRE

WEST MIDLANDS

Chairman: Roger Haywood devon@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: Richard Russ kent@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: John Deeley oxfordshire@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: Vacant regions@woodenspoon.org.uk

woodenspoon.org.uk/devon

woodenspoon.org.uk/kent

woodenspoon.org.uk/oxfordshire

woodenspoon.org.uk/west-midlands

DORSET

LANCASHIRE

SCOTLAND

WILTSHIRE

Chairman: David Gullick dorset@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: Martin Long lancashire@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: Charlie Bryden scotland@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: Gareth John wiltshire@woodenspoon.org.uk

woodenspoon.org.uk/dorset

woodenspoon.org.uk/lancashire

woodenspoon.org.uk/scotland

woodenspoon.org.uk/wiltshire

DURHAM

LEICESTERSHIRE

SHROPSHIRE

WORCESTERSHIRE

Chairman: Mike Stephenson durham@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: Malcolm Foulkes-Arnold leicester@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: Glyn Dobbs shropshire@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: John Gibson worcestershire@woodenspoon.org.uk

woodenspoon.org.uk/durham

woodenspoon.org.uk/leicestershire

woodenspoon.org.uk/shropshire

woodenspoon.org.uk/worcestershire

EASTERN COUNTIES

LEINSTER

SOMERSET

YORKSHIRE

Chairman: Séamus Farrelly eastern@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: Fergus Slattery leinster@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: David Reed somerset@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: Stuart Watson yorkshire@woodenspoon.org.uk

woodenspoon.org.uk/eastern-counties

woodenspoon.org.uk/leinster

woodenspoon.org.uk/somerset

woodenspoon.org.uk/yorkshire

GLOUCESTERSHIRE

LONDON

STAFFORDSHIRE

Chairman: Rob York gloucester@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: David Eck london@woodenspoon.org.uk

Chairman: Trevor Jenkins staffordshire@woodenspoon.org.uk

woodenspoon.org.uk/gloucestershire

woodenspoon.org.uk/london

woodenspoon.org.uk/staffordshire

16

Spring/Summer 2018

Nowhere near you? If you would like to represent the children’s charity of rugby in your area, please contact regions@woodenspoon.org.uk

woodenspoon.org.uk

KICK-OFF

DEVON

DONATION SPARKS DECADE OF GROWTH

A

DEVON school building an ever-growing reputation for vocational education can trace its decade-long development to a six-figure sum donated by the children’s charity of rugby.

Wooden Spoon Devon has provided £125,000 to Torquay’s Combe Pafford Business and Enterprise School since 2007 to allow headteacher Mike Lock and his staff to achieve their dream of building a business and enterprise centre where pupils undertake vocational training alongside academic programmes.

An initial gift of £100,000 helped the school, which caters for children with moderate learning difficulties, create purpose-built centres including a motor vehicle workshop, construction skills facility, the working Yellow Frog cafe (pictured), The Ark animal care centre housing lizards, snakes and tropical fish and a greenhouse with 40 outdoor produce beds, the fruits of which are sold at Totnes market to raise income for overseas trips.

An additional recent £25,000 donation has allowed the school to complete a glass-fronted hairdressing salon, which was due to be opened as this issue of Spoonews went to press.

A sixth form has also been introduced and pupils split their weeks with two days at the vocational centre, two days doing academic work and a further two undertaking work experience with employers including Sainsbury’s, National Tyres, Morgan Sindall Construction, Shaldon Animal Trust and the Duchy Hotel Group.

This development has proven to

be so successful that some of the partner companies are seeking more work placement students than the school is able to supply.

Given Wood Spoon Devon’s role in the school’s transformation, it is little surprise that Mike Lock has become a fervent fan of the children’s charity of rugby and can frequently be found spreading the word about its work.

Combe Pafford’s motto – “Believe, achieve, succeed” – is a fitting description of the school’s last decade and Wooden Spoon Devon is proud to have played a part in its journey.

MARAUDER MISSED PETER Doyle, a long-standing supporter of the children’s charity of rugby and benevolent sponsor of its invitational Sevens sides, has been remembered as “one of life’s great characters” following his death in January.

A proud Irishman, the 76-yearold played a key role in uniting the Marauders – formerly the White Hart Marauders – with Wooden Spoon in 2014.

Writing as then president of the club, Peter described the partnership as one made in “County Cork (you know what I mean – in heaven)”. Adding: “We both play in the same colours of the four home nations, and we both share the same values and passion for rugby.”

Billy White, chairman of Wooden Spoon Marauders RFC, said: “Even though he had taken a back seat for a number of years due to his health, ‘Doylie’ was still loved by us all. One of life’s great characters and a great Marauder for many years, he will be missed.”

SCOTLAND

FUNDRAISER TAKES BARBER BAN TO EXTREME LENGTHS WOODEN Spoon supporters are well known for going the extra mile in aid of the children’s charity of rugby – and one man spent 2017 going to hair-raising lengths to bring in £4,500.

Dick Bird, from Aberdeen, started the year sporting a hairless head and face but swapped bald for bushy as he went through the next 12 months without visiting a barbers or having a shave.

Organised during his 60th birthday year, the challenge inspired friends and family to donate almost £2,850, while Dick also got his company, Auditel, to adopt Wooden Spoon as the

charity of the day at its annual conference, generating a further £1,650.

Dick, who organised the novel fundraiser having previously donated to other Wooden Spoon events over the past 20 years, including supporting teams taking part in the Four Peaks Challenge, told Spoonews: “Reaction to my hirsute look grew throughout the year just as my hair did!

“To be more precise, my beard – it was the centrepiece of the show – got quite spectacular in the last month or so, while the hair on my head didn’t get as long

as I expected – or hoped. I had a number of requests to play Santa at Christmas events by December.”

With the money raised and a head and face full of hair by December 31st 2017, Dick was left facing the dilemma of whether to keep his new look or return to his previous state.

And despite admitting that everyone he spoke to had a different idea about what he should do with his new style, the Auditel affiliate eventually plumped for

a date with a razor to see in 2018.

“My idea was always to do the big shave-off in the comfort of my own home on January 1st,” he explained. “And that’s what happened. In fact, I did keep a short goatee as a memento. It has lasted until now, but I don’t know how much longer I’ll keep it!”

Spring/Summer 2018

17

COMING UP From golf days to cycle rides, our regions host a huge range of exciting events each year.

Below is a snapshot of dates for your diary – visit woodenspoon.org.uk/events for a full list 8 APRIL

gloucestershire@woodenspoon.org.uk

Shropshire Veterans Day shropshire@woodenspoon.org.uk

20 APRIL Leicestershire St George’s Day Luncheon leicestershire@woodenspoon.org.uk Somerset St George’s Day Dinner somerset@woodenspoon.org.uk Yorkshire St George’s Day Dinner yorkshire@woodenspoon.org.uk

23 APRIL Devon St George’s Dinner devon@woodenspoon.org.uk

24 APRIL Surrey Sportsman’s Dinner surrey@woodenspoon.org.uk

27 APRIL

northumberland@woodenspoon.org.uk

surrey@woodenspoon.org.uk

5 MAY

MAY (TBC)

22 JUNE

Wiltshire Floodlit Celebration Final wiltshire@woodenspoon.org.uk

Scotland Glasgow Rugby Lunch scotland@woodenspoon.org.uk

Lancashire Golf Day lancashire@woodenspoon.org.uk

12 MAY

1 JUNE

26 JUNE

Hampshire Basingstoke RFC Charity Ball hampshire@woodenspoon.org.uk

Guernsey Legend Dinner guernsey@woodenspoon.org.uk

Nottinghamshire Golf Day nottinghamshire@woodenspoon.org.uk

16 MAY

3 JUNE

27 JUNE

Worcestershire The Big Fat Rugby Quiz worcestershire@woodenspoon.org.uk

Kent West Kent Club Together Cycle Ride kent@woodenspoon.org.uk

Wales Golf Day wales@woodenspoon.org.uk

17 MAY

7 JUNE

4 JULY

Oxfordshire Sportsman’s Dinner oxfordshire@woodenspoon.org.uk

Scotland Edinburgh Golf Day scotland@woodenspoon.org.uk

Northamptonshire Golf Day

18 MAY

Yorkshire Corporate Touch Rugby yorkshire@woodenspoon.org.uk

6 JULY

Staffordshire Thursfields Solicitors Charity Dinner staffordshire@woodenspoon.org.uk West Midlands Moseley Charity Dinner westmidlands@woodenspoon.org.uk

Gloucestershire Golf Day

20 MAY Merseyside Italian Lunch merseyside@woodenspoon.org.uk

24 MAY Scotland Aberdeen Dinner scotland@woodenspoon.org.uk

northamptonshire@woodenspoon.org.uk

Cornwall Golf Day cornwall@woodenspoon.org.uk

8 JUNE Kent West Kent Golf Day kent@woodenspoon.org.uk

Devon Plymouth Summer Ball devon@woodenspoon.org.uk

10 JUNE Yorkshire Black Sheep Big Spoon Bike Ride yorkshire@woodenspoon.org.uk

6 JUL

13 JUNE Leicestershire Guys and Dolls leicestershire@woodenspoon.org.uk

15 JUNE

3 JUN

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Spring/Summer 2018

Sussex Rugby Clubs Golf Day sussex@woodenspoon.org.uk

West Midlands Regional Golf Day westmidlands@woodenspoon.org.uk

25 MAY

21 JUNE

Northumberland Golf Day

Surrey Regional Golf Day

woodenspoon.org.uk

KICK-OFF

6 SEP 11 JULY Wiltshire Swindon Schools Tag Rugby Festival wiltshire@woodenspoon.org.uk

shropshire@woodenspoon.org.uk

11 OCTOBER

16 NOVEMBER

12 SEPTEMBER

Ulster Annual Dinner ulster@woodenspoon.org.uk

Lancashire Annual Luncheon lancashire@woodenspoon.org.uk

12 OCTOBER

23 NOVEMBER

Wales Autumn Lunch wales@woodenspoon.org.uk

Merseyside Annual Luncheon merseyside@woodenspoon.org.uk

National Wooden Spoon Regatta events@woodenspoon.org.uk

20 JULY Kent East Kent Golf Day kent@woodenspoon.org.uk

Leicestershire Golf Day leicestershire@woodenspoon.org.uk

Staffordshire Golf Day staffordshire@woodenspoon.org.uk

15 SEPTEMBER

3 AUGUST Eastern Counties Golf Day & Dinner eastern@woodenspoon.org.uk

20 AUGUST Warwickshire Golf Day warwickshire@woodenspoon.org.uk

Wales Bike Ride wales@woodenspoon.org.uk

27 SEPTEMBER Sussex Rugby Clubs Golf Challenge Final sussex@woodenspoon.org.uk

5 OCTOBER

22 AUGUST

Leicestershire Oktoberfest leicestershire@woodenspoon.org.uk

Leicestershire Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat leicestershire@woodenspoon.org.uk

Hertfordshire Golf Day hertfordshire@woodenspoon.org.uk

24 AUGUST

9 OCTOBER

Kent Kent Rugby Club Golf Challenge kent@woodenspoon.org.uk

National Scrum Dine With Me events@woodenspoon.org.uk

13 OCTOBER

NOVEMBER (TBC)

Guernsey Masquerade Ball guernsey@woodenspoon.org.uk

Surrey Rugby Clubs Curry Lunch surrey@woodenspoon.org.uk

24 OCTOBER

5 DECEMBER

Wales Annual Quiz wales@woodenspoon.org.uk

Sussex Christmas Lunch on Brighton Pier sussex@woodenspoon.org.uk

1 NOVEMBER Scotland Edinburgh Dinner scotland@woodenspoon.org.uk

8 NOVEMBER Scotland Edinburgh Dinner scotland@woodenspoon.org.uk

14 NOVEMBER Gloucestershire Annual Dinner gloucestershire@woodenspoon.org.uk

7 DECEMBER Warwickshire Christmas Lunch warwickshire@woodenspoon.org.uk

14 DECEMBER Yorkshire Christmas Sporting Lunch yorkshire@woodenspoon.org.uk

15 DECEMBER Guernsey Children’s Christmas Party guernsey@woodenspoon.org.uk

DECEMBER (TBC)

6 SEPTEMBER

Scotland Glasgow Wine Tasting scotland@woodenspoon.org.uk

Sussex Cricket Meets Spoon Lunch sussex@woodenspoon.org.uk

FEBRUARY 2019

7 SEPTEMBER Shropshire Golf Day

5 DEC

8 NOV

National The Rugby Ball (see page 7) events@woodenspoon.org.uk

Spring/Summer 2018

19

FAMILY TIES

Wooden Spoon’s Worcester warrior John Gibson reveals how club colours caught the children’s charity of rugby a chairman

T

HIS season’s fashion or not, few would dispute that Wooden Spoon’s combination of colours stands out from the crowd.

Spotted at sporting events the world over and worn by members as a badge of belonging, the children’s charity of rugby’s brazen blazers and ties deliberately draw the attention of others keen to know their origin.

And of all those to have had their interest snared by our stripes, John Gibson is certainly among the charity’s greatest and most-prized catches. As this issue of Spoonews went to press, the founder of Wooden Spoon Worcestershire and long-standing trustee was entering the final few days of his five-year tenure as chairman of the charity.

Yet rewind 16 years and remarkably the popular figurehead had not even heard of the organisation he would go on to lead with distinction. His fateful introduction, he recalls, came about purely because of his curiosity about fellow diners’ choice of neck attire.

“My association with Wooden Spoon started while I was having lunch before watching France vs England in Paris in 2002 and I saw three guys wearing the striped tie,” John explained.

“As you do, I stupidly enquired what the tie was all about and that led them to ask me where I lived.

“When I told them I was from Worcestershire the response was ‘we’ve not got a committee in Worcestershire yet’. From that moment a region was formed with myself as its inaugural chairman – which I still am. If I’m brutally honest though, I’d not heard of the charity before I caught sight of the tie that day.”

While John’s serendipitous induction into Wooden Spoon’s ranks was sudden, he concedes to being a soft target and needed little coercion to champion the children’s charity of rugby.

The altruistic Worcester Warriors fan had previously been an active fundraiser for the Round Table and “was looking for somewhere to spend some time”.

“I didn’t need to be strong armed into getting involved,” he said.

“Wooden Spoon was a good fit straight away, its links to rugby attracted me, the ethos ticked with me and it pulled at the heartstrings.”

Although he had no way of knowing he

20

Spring/Summer 2018

would eventually become the charity’s national captain, John’s energy and enthusiasm meant there was an element of inevitability about his dedication to the cause. The outgoing chairman told Spoonews how his motivation to do more intensified and why he has been so willing to give his time to the charity.

“Initially you are motivated by the children that Wooden Spoon supports, then you meet those children’s parents, those running small charities that have organically grown to improve lives and you are inspired to do more,” the 59-year-old added.

“Then the further you immerse yourself in Wooden Spoon the more you are inspired by all of the regional volunteers who do so much and give up their time for nothing.

“The Wooden Spoon family works well together even though each region has its

“Wooden Spoon was a good fit straight away, its links to rugby attracted me, the ethos ticked with me and it pulled at the heartstrings.” own character because the people on those committees raise money in whatever way they love to do so and have a special connection with their own communities.”

John firmly believes Wooden Spoon’s regional footprint and policy of spending money where it is raised are key to the charity’s continued good health and have helped strengthen its bond within the sport that inspired its creation.

Noting that being a rugby fan and chair of an organisation with big-name ambassadors had been “a good gig”, he said: “There is a definite warmth from current and former players and governing bodies towards what we are trying to do and what we are trying to achieve.

“There is no cynicism about Wooden Spoon – we get good press, we do great things and people seem to love us.”

Despite his extended tenure as chairman

and continued leadership of Wooden Spoon Worcestershire, John modestly plays down his own contribution to the enduring popularity of the children’s charity of rugby.

“Whether you are a partner in a company or chair of a charity, you are just a custodian,” he said. “You pick up the baton and run with it and then you pass it on to somebody else.

“It’s not for me to judge whether I’ve been good, bad or indifferent, but I do feel I’m leaving the charity in as good a place, if not better, than it was.”

Dismissing any personal praise, John insisted credit for the charity’s prosperity should be attributed to the hundreds of volunteers and supporters Wooden Spoon has across the UK and Ireland.

“During my time as chairman we’ve organically changed in the way that any good charity should,” he said.

“Our governance is now stronger than it has ever been and in the modern era that is as it should be. Despite these necessary changes we have kept our volunteer force – they’ve kept up their energy and enthusiasm, continue to raise funds and continue to be inspired.

“The success of our charity is down to them.

I have been geared towards governance but have been governing a marvellous band of people who give up their free time for Wooden Spoon when they could choose to give it up for anybody. That they continue to choose to support the children’s charity of rugby is what makes me most pleased and proud.

“Our charity could not survive without them.”

True to this belief, John has no intention of waving goodbye to Wooden Spoon after welcoming new chairman Quentin Smith (page 23) into the hot seat.

Indeed, 16 years after first being struck by stripes, John continues to relish his regional role and is more than happy to tie his colours to the mast of a new captain.

“I’m really pleased to be handing the baton on because a change of leader and change of emphasis is no doubt a good thing,” he concluded. “I shall miss it dreadfully but vow never to say ‘I wouldn’t have done it like that in my day’. Quentin is an absolute star and is going to be brilliant – the charity is in a very safe pair of hands.”

FEATURE

MAKE their DEBUT one to remember Bespoke publications and photography placing your young superstars in the sporting spotlight Find out more at yourdebut.co.uk or facebook.com/DebutUK

DEBUT

FOR THOSE ABOUT TO MAKE THEIR MARK

FEATURE

T

HOOKED

HERE can be few better qualified than independent mediator Quentin Smith to lead Wooden Spoon through its 35th birthday celebrations and beyond.

The newly-appointed chair of the children’s charity of rugby is widely championed for his unerring knack of bringing peace to conflict, whether brokering the break-up of a worldfamous rock band or seeking a settlement to a multi-million pound intellectual property dispute.

Such skills have seen him consistently ranked among the top 20 mediators in the UK and established the 62-year-old as an incredibly big fish in legal waters, however it is Quentin’s association with sharks that set him on a course to the pinnacle of professional rugby and make him a perfect match for Wooden Spoon.

Following the purchase of Sale Sharks by businessman Brian Kennedy in 2000, Quentin was appointed as the club’s chairman and his ten-year tenure at the Salford club encompassed a stadium move and becoming Premiership champions in 2006.

A national and international perspective followed as the first – and only – independent chairman of Premiership Rugby from 20102016; during which time Quentin was also granted a pitchside view of the global game as a director of the company tasked by the RFU to deliver the 2015 Rugby World Cup. Helping to stage one of sport’s biggest spectacles poses something of a problem when it comes to finding a new challenge that excites, but – true to his mastery of mediation – Quentin believes he has found the perfect “resolution” in Wooden Spoon.

“I’ve been approached about a few roles, but as someone who has applauded and admired the charity’s work for some time, this voluntary position represents an outstanding prospect,” he told Spoonews. “It’s a good fit – an integrated part of a sport I really enjoy and know well. As well as my links to the elite level, I used to play rugby, my 14-year-old son plays rugby and I have many other connections with the grassroots game.

“I can identify with Wooden Spoon, with its

Former Premiership chief Quentin Smith bites at the chance to lead the children’s charity of rugby

values and how they are demonstrated.

“Wooden Spoon may not have the commercial intensity involved with Premiership clubs but it has got limitless potential in that it does not have any inherent constraints.

“At Premiership Rugby there is quite a lot of stricture and structure in which the business operates – it is heavily regulated; has a defined season, league and cup competitions with commitments to, principally, supporters, sponsors and broadcasters.

“A charity, however, is built on goodwill and, with the creative endeavour of both fundraisers and beneficiaries, has the opportunity for development which could be exponential.”

Quentin’s chairmanship is the latest chapter in a long-standing relationship with Wooden Spoon, which began through attending events as a supporter and donor and flourished as a consequence of friendships he forged with fellow trustees while involved with rugby’s toptier clubs.

He has seen firsthand the affection felt for the charity by the sport that inspired its creation and is unsurprised that Wooden Spoon has attracted a star-studded squad of ambassadors.

“I think Wooden Spoon exemplifies all of the sport’s fundamental values – teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportsmanship,” he said.

“At the very heart of those values is enjoyment and this charity is not just about being earnest and virtuous; its supporters enjoy their engagement and do so with smiles on their faces.

“The sense of fun that comes through Wooden Spoon’s activities

is palpable and something that has immediate appeal to those involved in the game.

“But most importantly, the charity has a long and proud track record of brightening the lives of its beneficiaries. Whether supporting a school through the provision of a specialist playground or enhancing a hospice’s respite care provision, Wooden Spoon makes a tangible difference to communities across the country.”

Describing the job done by his predecessor John Gibson as “outstanding”, Quentin said he is relishing the opportunity to build on those firm foundations, and stressed that a change in leadership would not mean a dramatic change in direction.

“My work as a mediator is about addressing difficulties and problems by listening to people, establishing their real needs and interests, and assisting to achieve them,” he concluded.

“It’s not a question of doing things my way but more about discovering what everyone involved with the charity wants and sharing a journey. That way we can move forward collectively and, perhaps, push the pace to achieve even more.”

“The sense of fun that comes through Wooden Spoon’s activities is palpable and something that has immediate appeal to those involved in the game.”

Spring/Summer 2018

23

STAYING POWER

As Wooden Spoon reaches its 35th anniversary, we caught up with cofounder Nigel Timson to discover the secret of the charity’s longevity...

T

RAVERSING today’s tumultuous social and political times, it is reassuring to know that much about Wooden Spoon remains constant as the children’s charity of rugby celebrates its 35th anniversary.

Every passing year since our formation three-and-a-half decades ago has been marked by the relentless work of our regional committees – and headquarters staff – in raising millions of pounds to open new projects benefiting children with a disability or facing disadvantage across the UK and Ireland.

This superb staying power is perhaps best embodied in those who give up their time for Wooden Spoon – including one man who was present at the charity’s creation and has been a driving force for the cause ever since.

As one of five friends presented with a wooden spoon by a group of home fans after Ireland beat

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Spring/Summer 2018

“It wasn’t something that happened overnight, but I believe that the development of the regional network was, remains and always will be a key pivot of Wooden Spoon.”

England in Dublin to leave the visitors rock bottom of the 1983 Five Nations Championship, Nigel Timson, alongside his fellow co-founders, has played an intrinsic part in transforming the gift of a kitchen utensil into a life-changing organisation.

Recalling the charity’s creation, he told Spoonews: “We all thought the presentation of the wooden spoon was great fun at the time.

“The day after, on the flight back to Heathrow, we were on the same plane as most of the English and Irish players and we got them to sign this small spoon. From that, we had the idea of organising a golf day to raffle off the spoon and raise some money.”

As it turned out, the spoon was not sold at the event held six months later at Surrey’s Farnham Golf Club – but that did not stop the founders from raising £8,500 to buy a minibus for Park School in Aylesbury.

Nigel has fond memories of the formative fundraiser and the fun of that first event was enough to convince him to remain involved as the idea was expanded into a registered charity.

And just as golf days have remained a constant thread throughout Wooden Spoon’s history, so too did the next step in the story as Nigel helped to organise the annual showpiece now known as the Rugby Ball, which became the catalyst for the charity’s successful strategy of raising money in the regions where it is ultimately spent.

“While we started off very much as a London-based charity, when I moved back to Birmingham – which is where I’m from originally – I started the Warwickshire region,” he explained.

“That was part of a snowball effect and people around the country began to use their contacts and friends to develop the regional

FEATURE network, primarily through putting on regional, fun events.

“It wasn’t something that happened overnight and it took several years to grow, but I believe that the development of the regional network was, remains and always will be a key pivot of Wooden Spoon.”

The enduring existence of this regional network raises hundreds of thousands of pounds every year and only achieves such impressive results thanks to the volunteers steering each committee.

On top of being a co-founder and a trustee since day one, Nigel has been a regional chairman and currently serves on the committee for the Chilterns region as well as the National Projects and Governance committees.

But far from seeing his responsibilities as a burden, the 70-year-old insists that his passion for the charity burns as brightly today as it did in the early 80s.

“I’ve been there from the start,

“My hope is for more of the same, with the emphasis on more – more money raised and more disadvantaged children helped.”

so it’s in my blood,” he explained.

“Wooden Spoon is something that I just really enjoy being involved in – it is a very, very special charity.

“I love rugby and if I’m going to put my efforts into anything, I want it to be Wooden Spoon.”

Displaying an altruism common in Wooden Spoon’s supporters, Nigel insists that any personal pride in the charity’s achievements is overshadowed by the thought of the benefits brought to countless children and young people to date.

And as we move towards 40 years and beyond, he hopes that the consistency of the first 35 years remains a hallmark well into the future.

“The charity today is successful,” he concluded.

“We still raise more than £1 million per year and my hope is for more of the same, with the emphasis on more – more money raised and more disadvantaged children helped.”

WOODEN SPOON FAST FACTS IN THE BEGINNING...

Founders Peter Scott, Steve Scott, Mike Scott, Vic Durling, Fred Hucker, Nigel Timson Ireland v England Five Nations 19 March 1983 First Fundraiser Farnham Golf Day First Project Park School, Aylesbury 35 YEARS ON… 400+ committed volunteers across UK & Ireland £24 million fundraising total 650+ projects One million children and young people helped

Rich history (clockwise from above left): Wooden Spoon’s founders hand over the keys to the minibus bought with the proceeds of the charity’s first fundraiser; a copy of the programme from the inaugural golf day; the co-founders receive Royal recognition during 20th anniversary celebrations in 2003; the wooden spoon, from which we take our name, is being returned to the children’s charity of rugby from the RFU in 2018 Spring/Summer 2018

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26

Spring/Summer 2018

FEATURE

FLAG BEARER For family, the children’s charity of rugby and Saint George: Spoonews discovers what motivates the man beneath Mr England’s top hat and tails...

Spring/Summer 2018

27

B

EING in the company of family has always been a favoured pastime of Peter Cross, which is why the sportloving septuagenarian needs little encouragement to endure endless hours on a bicycle on behalf of the children’s charity of rugby.

The man better known to visitors of Twickenham as Mr England, the RFU’s official mascot, has successfully completed a series of strenuous stretches in the saddle for Wooden Spoon, including last year’s Prudential RideLondonSurrey 100.

But rather than regarding such events as a physical chore, Peter considers cycling challenges as a chance to cherish memories of his son Simon, who he and his wife Pam lost to a brain tumour in 1999 aged 30.

“We’d been big buddies all of our lives,” the 74-year-old told Spoonews.

“When Simon left school he started working for me as a salesman in our gift shop business and we used to go biking together.

“Even when I knew he had a brain tumour I wasn’t expecting him to die because I’m generally just a bit of a positive guy, but it all happened fairly quickly.

“That was when I started doing the distance stuff,” explained Peter. “Being in the saddle reminds me of him and cycling has helped me massively.”

A SALUTE TO SIMON Not content with a leisurely ride down memory lane, the ardent Exeter Chiefs fan teamed up with five of his “rugby mates” to honour Simon on a Herculean scale – by pedalling 500 miles across Spain in a week.

The group’s Spanish sortie raised more than £80,000 for an epilepsy charity and proved the catalyst for a succession of two-wheeled challenges, with Wooden Spoon becoming the prime benefactor.

For former League-turned-Union player Peter – who counts Torquay, Exeter and Teignmouth among his past clubs – collecting money for the children’s charity of rugby was

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FEATURE a natural progression after meeting and striking up firm friendships with Wooden Spoon Devon’s current chairman Roger Haywood and his predecessor Bruce Priday.

“I’ve been a rugby man all my life and that’s how my association with Wooden Spoon started – on the back of good friendships,” he said.

“We all stayed together on the Gold Coast during the World Cup in Australia in 2003 and spent a lot of time talking about the charity.

“Bruce and Roger asked me if I wanted to get involved and once I’d been to one of their functions that was it.

“I really enjoy the social side and I’ve attended a lot of project openings as Mr England.”

Pictured (inset and below): Wooden Spoon Devon supporters Peter Cross and Peter Cockram pose ahead of their sponsored ride at Twickenham; and show-off their RideLondon medals

CHARITY’S CAPITAL GAINS

EMOTIONAL ENVOY Reflecting on the positive role played by Wooden Spoon Devon, which has raised more than £1.35 million and opened 30 projects in the West Country since 2000, the Dawlish resident added: “Each and every one of the projects is special.

“Wooden Spoon spends its money wisely and puts it where it is most beneficial to the community.

“I’m quite an emotional person and, if I’m being honest, can cry quite easily.

“When I attend project openings I try to hold it in if I can, but there’s been a few times when I’ve shed tears of happiness for what I see being achieved by Wooden Spoon.”

Such experiences have been pivotal to Peter making the children’s charity of rugby the focus of his own fundraising and the seasoned cyclist is content that doing so has not diminished from his original motivation for amassing miles in the saddle.

Simon, he insists, remains part of the Cross peloton – even if his bike is edging towards retirement.

“The first sponsored ride I did was personal, but all of them have been on behalf of Simon in a way because they are all to do with kids,” he explained.

“The first three or four rides we tackled I did on Simon’s mountain bike, which made the going tougher. I’ve still got the bike but I don’t ride it as much these days;

as I’m getting older I’m finding I need a bit more help, which means using a better, more suitable bike.”

Age, however, did not hinder Peter’s progress during last summer’s Prudential RideLondonSurrey 100, an annual event following a route made famous by the world’s best cyclists at the London 2012 Olympics and featuring a number of leg-testing climbs.

“There’s been a few times when I’ve shed tears of happiness for what I see being achieved by Wooden Spoon.”

Accompanied by good friend and fellow Wooden Spoon Devon supporter Peter Cockram, the veteran fundraiser made light work of the 100-mile circuit which began at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic and passed through the capital into Surrey’s stunning countryside.

“I loved every minute of the ride,” said the former policeman.

“There were thousands of people out everywhere, supporters hollering encouragement and one guy I rode with commented that it made you feel like Mark Cavendish – and it did; it was really special.”

Peter, whose costume change from St George’s Crossemblazoned top hat and tails to lycra raised more than £2,700 for Wooden Spoon Devon, added: “Other than the fundraising, the only goals I set myself were to have fun, do it with friends and not stop and that’s what I did.

“I put in a fair amount of training beforehand and went into the ride reasonably fit.

“I’m quite lucky to live in Devon where we have a lot of hilly terrain and fantastic countryside, so training – apart from taking up a lot of time – is quite fun anyway.

“Consequently, I found Box Hill, the climb that featured in the Olympics, quite comfortable and I overtook lots of people who were less than half my age!

“If I did the ride again, I think I’d push on a bit more than I did,” he continued. “I finished the second half stronger than I did the first and could have gone on.

I averaged about 16-miles-perhour, which is a good, steady pace but with hindsight I could have gone quicker.”

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“I enjoy everything about being Mr England – you get to meet and talk to people and be part of their memories of their game at Twickenham.”

Peter’s desire to continually push himself to bring cheer to others not only provides the power to his pedals. His charitable spirit is also evident in the origin of his alter-ego Mr England and his extended tenure as Twickenham’s talismanic mascot.

PROUD PATRIOT The Wooden Spoon supporter first donned patriotic attire as a show of support for British athletes competing at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta and quickly discovered dressing up to be a crowd pleaser.

“Believe it or not, I’d never dressed up or even carried a flag before then,” Peter said.

“It had always been an ambition of mine to go to an Olympics and I wore a Union Jack outfit as a way of letting our competitors know they had support.

“There were not that many Brits out there so I stood out like a sore thumb. I was pictured on TV watching a women’s hockey game and found everyone wanted to talk to me and that made my Olympics experience all the more enjoyable.”

Inspired by seeing West Indies fans in colourful costumes at the cricket, Peter wore his outfit to Twickenham on his return from the US – a look which he concedes was in sharp contrast to the “welly boots and Barbour” fashion of the day.

COSTUME CHANGE An endorsement from thenEngland-captain Will Carling convinced the gift-shop owner to expand his rugby wardrobe and by the time the British and Irish Lions toured South Africa in 1997, Peter had had a top hat and tails

emblazoned with a Union Jack tailor-made.

However, it was the third evolution of his outfit that saw Mr England established as an official fixture at Twickenham.

Photographed by the media wearing his now familiar St George’s Cross suit during England’s Six Nations victory over Italy in Rome, Peter was approached by the RFU and offered the role of mascot.

“I jumped at it,” the super fan said of a position which has afforded him a pitch-side view of England for almost two decades and seen him rub shoulders with some of rugby’s biggest names.

JOB SATISFACTION “With my gear on I’ve had my picture taken with people thousands and thousands of times now. I enjoy everything about

being Mr England – you get to meet and talk to people and be part of their memories of their game at Twickenham.”

Peter’s commitment to the England cause is certainly commendable. While tickets to Twickenham are an attractive perk, the stadium’s location 170 miles from his Devon home means he faces a sizeable matchday commute.

That he has only missed one Six Nations fixture since 1996 should come as little surprise, however.

Whether as a father, fundraiser or flag-bearer, Peter has repeatedly demonstrated that he is not adverse to going the extra mile for causes close to his heart. ➤ To find out how you can raise funds for Wooden Spoon in your area, visit woodenspoon.org.uk/ get-involved/challenges-events Spring/Summer 2018

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Brian Murray tells us what inspired him to sign up to cycle 4,300 miles across the United States in aid of Wooden Spoon...

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NYONE who has spent time on two wheels on Britain’s roads can confirm that cycling can be a surprisingly hazardous pastime.

Riders settling into their saddles for fitness or fun do so knowing they will face potential pitfalls ranging from punctures and potholes to inclement weather and impatient motorists.

But for Wooden Spoon supporter Brian Murray, even Britain’s most chaotic conditions seem like minor inconveniences in comparison with the challenges awaiting him when he takes on the TransAm Bike Race this June.

“It’s a great opportunity to experience the USA, good and bad, and going at a speed

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“One of the things I have been quite taken aback at is how humbling it is that people are so generous with their time and money. The whole point of doing this is to raise money, so when people step forward it is very humbling.”

that lets you appreciate the scenery,” said Brian of a ride which will see him cycle 4,300 miles across America while trying to raise £4,300 for both the children’s charity of rugby and The Fire Fighters Charity.

“That being said, there are some areas where I’m less looking forward to going, particularly east Kentucky where the dogs run free and you are guaranteed to be chased by them.

“It happens a lot and last year the three leaders of the race were all bitten by the same pitbull. While there are bears, snakes and any number of other nasties to contend with on the way, my biggest concern is the pitbulls because they are a very real threat.

“A number of the riders carry pepper spray

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or wasp spray as a form of defence, but my hope will be that I can sprint away from them – although after cycling at least 3,000 miles at that stage, I’m not sure whether there’ll be any sprinting left in my legs!”

TIME TARGET Brian’s odyssey begins on June 2 in Oregon, on America’s Pacific coast, from where he will head east on a cross-country route traversing 12 states before reaching the finish line in Yorktown, Virginia, on the Atlantic coast.

Given the ride’s eye-watering length, it is unsurprising that the time taken to complete it ranges from as few as 18 days to more than 50 depending on fitness levels, mechanical problems and even navigational errors.

And while Brian is not expecting to trouble the leaders, he has set himself a target of conquering the coast-to-coast challenge in an impressive 26 days – a feat that will require him to turn the pedals for 165 miles in every 24-hour period.

He explained: “I could come in slightly below that time, but the reality is that it only needs a small breakage with the bike or to go off track – there are lots of things that can happen that can very quickly add days if not weeks to your time. I’ve got a target and I could sneak under it or I could go well over it!

“Bike riding is something that I love to do and I like long-distance cycling. At the age of 60, speed isn’t my strength, but I’m happy to just keep going and going. I’m not going to set any world records, but I will push myself very hard.”

ALL FOR A GOOD CAUSE The physically-taxing fundraiser has required Brian to spend many hours on his bike in preparation, including completing the Land’s End-to-John O’Groats journey and enduring training rides on Dartmoor, Exmoor and elsewhere in the vicinity of his Exeter home.

Even the excessively snowy beginning to March didn’t prevent him from topping up his training as he used an indoor cycle to cover 100 miles in one sitting.

His schedule in the saddle is enough to make most people wince, but Brian insists that the thought of helping out his two chosen charities is motivation enough to keep the wheels turning.

Having had a 30 year career in the Fire Service, becoming Chief Fire Officer and now firefighting on a retained basis, Brian’s desire to support The Fire Fighters Charity is obvious – especially as the organisation helped him as he recovered from not one, but two bike accidents in recent

“Bike riding is something that I love to do and I like long-distance cycling.

At the age of 60, speed isn’t my strength, but I’m happy to just keep going and going. I’m not going to set any world records, but I will push myself very hard.” years that left him first with a broken pelvis and shattered elbow and then a broken hip.

The desire to help Wooden Spoon Devon came about after he and wife Doreen helped the local committee of the children’s charity of rugby with car parking and collecting donations during an Exeter Chiefs match at the club’s Sandy Park stadium.

He told Spoonews: “My wife began volunteering more with the organisation and we very much liked what they were doing for the various causes and how they helped groups that otherwise would go without support.

“The fact I started to hear about Wooden Spoon on a daily basis made it seem obvious that these were the two charities I would support. The chance to raise money and do that little bit extra was something I was more than happy to do.”

Brian’s efforts on behalf of the charities has resulted in a series of fundraisers, ranging from a request for people to donate £60 to mark his 60th birthday to a community safety event and bucket collection in Exeter town centre attended not only by local firefighters but also Wooden Spoon mascot Spoony.

He also generated several hundred pounds after Wooden Spoon Devon arranged for him to give a talk about his challenge to an audience at an Exeter Chiefs event.

With Brian’s fundraising standing at nearly £3,300 of his £4,300 target as this issue went to press, the public have clearly been impressed with the literal lengths the former firefighter is willing to travel to help others.

But the endurance cyclist insists that he holds an equal admiration for those who want to support either of his charitable choices.

“People have been very interested in finding out what I’m doing and they are always keen to help and to tell others,” he explained.

“One of the things I have been quite taken aback at is how humbling it is that people are so generous with their time and money. The whole point of doing this is to raise money, so when people step forward it is very humbling.”

As the Trans-Am Bike Race is a selfsupported challenge during which riders are not allowed to accept any outside help, Brian will be travelling to the start line on his own – hopefully, as he put it while reflecting on his previous bad luck with injuries, “healthy and in one piece”.

His preparations have left him positively pragmatic about his ability to cope with the ensuing weeks on his bike and, in addition to completing his fundraising challenge, he will have added motivation to make it across the United States in good time.

“I’m looking forward to every single bit of it – even east Kentucky – and Doreen will be waiting for me at the finish in Yorktown,” he concluded. “It will be nice to finally see each other – hopefully no more than 26 days after I depart!” ➤ To donate to Brian’s Trans-Am Bike Race challenge, visit mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/ brianmurrayadventures or, to find out more about his challenge, go to facebook.com/ BrianMurrayAdventures

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Wooden Spoon Schools campaign supported by Strutt & Parker

Play your socks off for Wooden Spoon, the children’s charity of rugby!

Wooden Spoon is the children’s charity of rugby, funding life-changing projects across the UK and Ireland to support children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage. We fund around 70 projects a year, including respite and medical treatment centres, sensory rooms, specialist playgrounds and community-based programmes.

Since our founding in 1983, we’ve distributed in excess of £24 million, helping over 1 million young people.

Launched in 2017, our Schools campaign supported by Strutt & Parker is an exciting initiative where students can wear Wooden Spoon rugby socks for a match and help to raise vital funds for local projects. Our distinctive stripy socks cost £10 a pair, which includes a £5 donation.

Join in the fun and stand out on the rugby pitch in 2018/19.

For more information about this great campaign please email Ian Lindsay – ilindsay@woodenspoon.org.uk or call 01252 773720 @charityspoon Wooden Spoon is a registered charity in England and Wales (Reg No: 326691) and in Scotland (Reg No: SC039247)

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SPOTTED...

FEATURE

WEARING STRIPES Schools sporting Wooden Spoon socks cause stir in the field of fashion

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S

TUDENTS at schools and colleges across the country are continuing to add stripes to their usual uniforms in a bid to raise money for young people living with a disability or facing disadvantage in the UK and Ireland.

Since the official launch of the children’s charity of rugby’s schools campaign last year, hundreds of pupils have taken to the field for fixtures wearing socks sporting Wooden Spoon’s distinctive colours.

Among the many educational institutions to have purchased and pulled on striped kit as part of the Strutt & Parker-supported initiative is The Falcons School for Boys.

Pupils at the Richmond preparatory school wore the socks – supplied by Wooden Spoon partner O’Neills – during a full day of rugby activities that played a key role in raising a significant sum.

Chantal Gargour, fundraising coordinator with Falcons’ parents’ association, said that 190 boys took part in the sock-wearing day and were proud to have been able to support the charity.

“The kids loved wearing the socks,” she told Spoonews. “We even had some who had lost their pair and asked to get another.

“Everybody is very much supportive of Wooden Spoon – especially the fact that it is local in the wider sense of the word.

“The boys love rugby – it’s their sport of choice and so Wooden Spoon is their charity of choice! They really like the fact that it helps other children who have special needs or who are not as privileged as they are.”

Falcons’ four-figure sum was further boosted by fundraising at the school’s Caribbean-themed summer fair, which benefited from generous sponsorship from companies including Bandai Namco and was attended by a team from Wooden Spoon’s national office.

Wooden Spoon was selected by vote to

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Spotted in Wooden Spoon’s distinctive stripes (clockwise from above): Students from Queen Elizabeth’s Hospital; Terrington Hall and Cundall Manor; Millfield; Sevenoaks School; Wisbech Grammar and King’s School

“They really like the fact that it helps other children who have special needs or who are not as privileged as they are.” become one of two charities of the year at The Falcons School for Boys in 2017 and will continue to benefit from the school’s generosity after it was named its sole charity for 2018.

In recognition of the Falcons’ fundraising, Wooden Spoon ambassador Steve Brown recently spent a morning meeting students at the school.

The Paralympian-turned-presenter, who captained Team GB’s wheelchair rugby squad at the 2012 London Games and is now a regular face on television screens, delivered an assembly before joining pupils in PE sessions.

Pulling up their socks for the children’s charity of rugby was also the order of the day for students at Yorkshire’s Terrington Hall and Cundall Manor School late last year.

The near neighbours went head-to-head in a series of hockey and rugby matches and, despite displaying a healthy dash of competitive spirit, were united in their efforts to raise funds for Wooden Spoon.

Alex Crockett, Head of Sport at Terrington Hall School, said: “The personal development of pupils is really important to us and we strive to develop well-rounded, responsible young people with a strong sense of community spirit.

“Sports such as rugby play a valuable role in fostering team effort and togetherness and we are proud that parents and pupils have embraced the opportunity to raise money for young people leading less fortunate lives.”

Schoolchildren are not the only group opting to donate and don Wooden Spoon colours. The Kent Society of Rugby Football Union Referees followed the fundraising fashion during a busy woodenspoon.org.uk

FEATURE weekend of matches in January.

More than 40 referees from the region purchased the £10 socks [£5 of which goes to Wooden Spoon] to wear while officiating fixtures and saw their donation matched by the Society.

Alan Crane, the group’s Chief Financial Officer, said: “I have personal knowledge of the great work Wooden Spoon does and am delighted the Kent Referees’ Society has become a member organisation.

“We are especially proud to be the first Referees’ Society in England to take this step and look forward to helping Wooden Spoon in the future.”

Ian Lindsay, Head of Business Development at Wooden Spoon, added: “We are so grateful to all those adopting the children’s charity of rugby’s sartorial style.

“Who would have thought that the simple act of buying and wearing charity socks could capture people’s attention and raise a fantastic amount to help those locally who need our support? We very much hope that other schools and organisations will follow the example and get involved.”

Other schools to have taken part in the scheme include King’s School in Macclesfield; Millfield in Somerset; Portsmouth Grammar School; Harrow; Sevenoaks School in Kent; Caterham School in Surrey; Wellington College in Berkshire; Queen Elizabeth’s Hospital in Bristol; Uppingham School in Rutland; Wisbech Grammar; and Latymer Upper in London.

“Who would have thought that the simple act of buying and wearing charity socks could capture people’s attention and raise a fantastic amount to help those locally who need our support?”

➤ For more information on how your school, club or referees’ society can support the children’s charity of rugby, visit woodenspoon.org.uk/schools or call 01252 773720.

HEAD FOR HEIGHTS? Wooden Spoon mounts dual assault on world record books

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LTHOUGH already held in high-esteem, the children’s charity of rugby has revealed lofty ambitions for 2019 with plans to take fundraising – and competitive sport – to new heights on Mount Everest.

Wooden Spoon is looking to recruit a squad of players, referees and corporate sponsors to contest the highest-altitude game of tag rugby played at Everest’s Advanced Base Camp before climbing to 6,650 metres above sea level for the highest altitude game of rugby.

The bid to set two world records on Earth’s tallest mountain will see challengers captained by two former giants of the game and competing in Sevens fixtures

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adhering to IRB rules.

Those volunteering for the once-ina-lifetime trip to Tibet will receive full training in the UK ahead of departure, with preparations to include multiple days of trekking in the high fells of the Lake District.

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Once in country, competitors will be guided to Advanced Base Camp – which sits at around 6,340 metres above sea level – and beyond by expedition specialists from Wooden Spoon partner Adventure Peaks, a doctor and a Nepalese sherpa support team.

The challenge’s finer details are yet to be finalised but the trip is anticipated to take a minimum of 24 days, which will allow sufficient time for the aspiring record breakers to acclimatise.

“The route our Everest group will follow is relatively well-trodden and there will be no need to strap on crampons or get to grips with climbing ropes, but walking – let alone playing rugby – at altitude is challenging both physically and mentally,” explained Sarah Webb, Wooden Spoon’s chief executive officer.

“The team at Adventure Peaks are Everest experts though, having successfully overseen 15 North Ridge summits, so our challengers will be in safe hands.

“The chance to make rugby and charity history doesn’t come around very often, but such an epic expedition will also have a huge impact on the many life-changing projects we fund.

“Money raised will help us make a positive difference to the estimated onein-ten children in the UK and Ireland with a disability and the 3.5 million youngsters living in poverty.”

The Everest adventure follows on the snow-covered heels of Wooden Spoon’s Arctic Challenge, which saw an intrepid group of fundraisers earn an official place in the Guinness Book of World Records in 2015 after playing the northernmost game of rugby in history.

Before a rugby ball could be kicked at the Magnetic North Pole, the two teams – led by Leicester Tigers legend Tim Stimpson and former Sevens worldplayer-of-the-year Ollie Phillips – had to trek more than 100 kilometres in temperatures that frequently plunged below minus 35 degrees.

The match itself, which was

“Whatever sacrifice fundraisers go through is worth it and that’s why people like me, and there are many people like me, give up our time; the kids deserve it.” – Tim Stimpson refereed by ex-England and British Lions star Lee Mears, proved a close-fought affair and finished with Tim’s team celebrating a narrow 17-14 victory.

However, far more important than the frozen fixture’s result was the circa £150,000 raised for Wooden Spoon to support children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage.

Reflecting on being exposed to the dangers of white-outs, ice breaks and polar bear attacks while on top of the world, Tim told Spoonews the experience of seeing the children’s charity of rugby’s money in action made any risks worthwhile.

“When I go to schools in Shropshire for a celebration day or to watch tag rugby being played, I see an amazing sense of pride that teachers and parents have for those children we help,” said the one-time Premiership top points scorer.

“And when I’m told an event or activity wouldn’t

have been possible without the money raised by Wooden Spoon, it inspires me to tell even more people that whatever they can do – no matter how big or small – makes a huge difference.

“A few hundred pounds can allow a team of tag rugby players or a whole school to have that moment when their parents and teachers are able to celebrate a freedom created by money raised by the charity.”

The Honorary President of Wooden Spoon Shropshire concluded: “Whatever sacrifice fundraisers go through is obviously worth it and that’s why people like me, and there are many people like me, give up our time; the kids deserve it and it is a small price to pay.

“I get a lot more from working with Wooden Spoon than it ever takes away.”

➤ Want to join the team on this epic adventure in April 2019?

Visit woodenspoon.org.uk/everest or email charity@woodenspoon.org.uk

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TNT DELIVERS £4MILLION TO WOODEN SPOON It’s been another amazing year of fundraising from TNT team members. So much so, we’ve reached an incredible milestone – raising more than £4 million in the 21 years we’ve been working with Wooden Spoon – and we couldn’t be prouder!

Daniel Vines, Managing Director of Sales and Wooden Spoon ambassador said: “During our 21 year relationship with the charity, our team members have been completely dedicated to raising money. Reaching £4 million is such a massive achievement.”

TNT Sprints Ahead in the Virgin Money London Marathon Our biggest fundraising event in 2017 was the Virgin Money London Marathon, which saw 11 brave TNT employees slip on their trainers to step over the starting line in aid of Wooden Spoon.

The team of runners were able to smash their £14k target, raising a fantastic £21k for Wooden Spoon. Dedicating months of their time to train in rain, snow and storms, the runners ensured they were fighting fit for the big day to endure the gruelling 26.2 mile course.

Katey Harding, TNT Resource Planner, was one of the team of runners and loved the experience: “It was such a fantastic experience shared with so many inspirational people. I was so proud to be part of Team TNT raising money for Wooden Spoon, a charity I am passionate about.”

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@TNTUKOFFICIAL

Ditching the Office Wear

We also competed in a different kind of marathon, as TNT continued to be the ‘Official Logistics Partner’ for the Virgin Money London Marathon for the 28th year.

It’s not just the big ticket events that drive our fundraising efforts; in the last 21 years we’ve held more than 1,000 dress down days, with colleagues digging deep in to their pockets, wallets and purses to donate £1 each time to the cause. From sports shirts to shorts and sandals, Halloween costumes to Christmas jumpers; our colleagues love a good old fashioned dress down day for Wooden Spoon.

With a marathon being a somewhat exhausting experience, keeping hydrated is key - and we help the runners stay on track by supplying more than one million water bottles, 692,000 items in thousands of finisher bags and 600 tables in a 90 minute window.

TNT Bob Gallops into the RDA But we don’t just run marathons and deliver parcels; this year we also bought our first horse. That’s right; our fundraising efforts saw TNT Bob, a 17 hands horse, joining the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) stables at Lowlands Farm in Shrewley, thanks to the generous donations from our TNT colleagues and our charity partner, Wooden Spoon.

TNT Bob is already helping children build self-esteem and confidence by interacting in regular sessions.

Erica, a RDA Rider, said: “I have a mobility disability and am in continual pain in my legs, but when I ride Bob I’m not limited, I’m equal to everyone else and I’m not held back by my physical limitations.”

TNT Keep Scoring for Wooden Spoon Bob wasn’t the only one galloping around a field for charity last year. Colleagues from across TNT joined forces for a charity six-a-side football tournament to raise £600 for Wooden Spoon in September. Alex Dockray, TNT Hub Support Officer, worked tirelessly to organise the event and bring teams from across the country together. She said: “It was really great to see teams from around the country come together for a deserving cause. All of our people are passionate about Wooden Spoon so it was no surprise to see 100 TNT colleagues brave the wind and rain to battle it out all in aid of charity.”

Cake sales, sweepstakes, BBQ’s and car washes; TNT team members have continued to be creative in ways they collect and its down to them that we’ve been able to raise this amazing amount.

TNT Delivering More in 2018 It’s been an absolutely amazing 21 years working towards £4million, but we won’t stop there. Our mission is to continue to build on this milestone figure and we’re looking forward to raising even more for Wooden Spoon in 2018.

Daniel Vines, concludes: “2018 is already looking like a great fundraising year and, with the support of our passionate team members behind us, I’m confident we can help transform the lives of more people by supporting Wooden Spoon. With the Virgin Money London Marathon around the corner, and 40 team members running for Wooden Spoon this year, I truly believe this will be a record breaking year for our fundraising.”

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Sport for all: Presenting Halifax Wheelchair Rugby League Club with the new chairs are (back row, from left) Wooden Spoon Yorkshire committee members Nigel Shaw, David Fenton and Andy Proud

A DIFFERENT LEAGUE

Wheelchair donation provides sporting opportunities for Yorkshire youngsters

Y WHO Wooden Spoon Yorkshire

WHERE Halifax

WHAT Three rugby wheelchairs

HOW MUCH? £11,650

THEY SAID “These chairs will see many years’ service encouraging generations to come to get fit and take part in wheelchair rugby.”

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ORKSHIRE youngsters will find it easier than ever to try their hands at wheelchair rugby league after the children’s charity of rugby presented a local club with three new chairs.

Wooden Spoon Yorkshire’s backing of Halifax Wheelchair Rugby League Club will enable newcomers to experience the fast, exciting sport as well as providing more opportunities for experienced players.

The chairs were handed to club president Malcolm Kielty by Yorkshire Committee members David Fenton, Nigel Shaw and Andy Proud ahead of a training session at Calderdale College Sports Hall – with the braver members of the group invited to strap themselves in and give the sport a try for themselves.

Andy Proud said: “It was fantastic to

see the enthusiasm of the wheelchair users for this sport, and a credit to Malcolm and his team at Halifax Wheelchair Rugby League Club.

“Under their guidance, I’m sure these chairs will see many years’ service encouraging these youngsters and generations to come to get fit and take part in wheelchair rugby.”

Wooden Spoon Yorkshire’s generosity was previously recognised

by Halifax Wheelchair Rugby League Club when Malcolm Kielty hosted Stuart Watson and Adam Hirst on the club’s pre-match lunch table during Rugby League’s The Qualifiers showdown between Halifax and Widnes in August.

The event featured a short speech from Malcolm in which he recognised Wooden Spoon’s contribution to the growth of wheelchair rugby league among children.

Halifax Wheelchair Rugby League Club is one of the sport’s leading sides, having been crowned Grand Final and Challenge Cup winners in both 2016 and 2017 and claiming the European Championship in 2014. ➤ Find out how you can play your part in backing the next generation of wheelchair athletes with our Supporting Tomorrow’s Superstars initiative at woodenspoon.org.uk/ get-involved/wheelchair-rugby

“It was fantastic to see the enthusiasm of the wheelchair users for this sport.” woodenspoon.org.uk

FUNDED PROJECT Active supporters: Ben Ransom and Billy Vunipola try out some of the equipment at Hemel Hempstead’s Haywood Grove School

FIT FOR PURPOSE

High-energy outdoor gym in high demand at Hertfordshire school

A WHO Wooden Spoon Hertfordshire

WHERE Hemel Hempstead

WHAT An action-packed outdoor gym

HOW MUCH? £12,000

THEY SAID “The children absolutely love the new addition to our outside area.”

N OUTDOOR gym funded by Wooden Spoon Hertfordshire is in near-constant demand from students attending a special school for primary-aged children with social, emotional and mental health difficulties in Hemel Hempstead.

According to Catherine Smith, the head teacher of Haywood Grove School, the suite of fitness equipment installed thanks to a £12,000 grant from the children’s charity of rugby has become a firm favourite of her four-to-11-year-old pupils.

“The children absolutely love the new addition to our outside area and will often ask to use the equipment at almost any time of day,” explained Catherine, whose school caters for youngsters who have been excluded, or been on the verge of

being excluded, from mainstream education as a consequence of their “challenging” behaviour.

“The only problem, children tell me, is that they have to queue up. This is a measure of the impact that this new equipment has had.”

The feedback was welcomed by John Batters, chairman of Wooden Spoon Hertfordshire, who attended the official opening alongside his region’s honorary president and London Irish winger Ben Ransom and England and Saracens star Billy Vunipola.

John, who was first introduced to

Wooden Spoon during his time as a rugby referee in the 1980s, said: “My early involvement with the charity was purely down to rugby but, as a grandfather, what motivates me today are the smiles we are able to put on the faces of those we help.”

The outdoor gym at Haywood Grove is the 20th community project opened

by Wooden Spoon Hertfordshire. ➤ Anyone interested in volunteering in support of the children’s charity of rugby in Hertfordshire can contact John by email at hertfordshire@ woodenspoon.org.uk

“The only problem, children tell me, is that they have to queue up. This is a measure of the impact that this new equipment has had.”

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Hands-on help: Phil Vickery enjoyed meeting users of Little Bridge House during his visit to the Devon hospice

BIG IMPACT AT LITTLE BRIDGE Wooden Spoon Devon helps to transform children’s hospice’s sensory play room

A WHO Wooden Spoon Devon

WHERE Little Bridge House, Barnstaple

WHAT Multi-sensory play area

HOW MUCH? £15,000

THEY SAID “We are thrilled to have such an amazing room to enhance the care and experiences we can give the children at Little Bridge House.”

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DEVON children’s hospice has been able to make muchneeded improvements to its facilities thanks to the generosity of the county’s Wooden Spoon committee.

A contribution of £15,000 from the children’s charity of rugby helped Barnstaple-based Little Bridge House – one of three centres that make up Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW) – to transform an existing room into a hi-tech, multi-sensory play area.

Wooden Spoon Ambassador Phil Vickery travelled to the south west for the official opening of the hospice’s new asset, which replaced Little Bridge’s previous sensory facilities that were in serious need of refurbishment after 20 years of use.

Tracy Freame, Head of Care at CHSW, said: “Multi-sensory stimulation plays

a vital role in meeting specialised therapeutic needs for the children.

“We are thrilled to have such an amazing room to enhance the care and experiences we can give the children at Little Bridge House, and we hope that our families will continue to enjoy it for many years to come.

“The fantastic, generous donation we received has enabled us to bring our facilities completely up-to-date and it’s a stunning asset to our hospice.”

Little Bridge House’s new sensory room features an array of specialist equipment, including coloured bubble tubes, fibre optic cascades, integrated acoustic systems and sparkling lights.

All of the equipment is programmable so that individual users can have their own settings.

Sensory stimulation is just one of the therapies available at the hospice, which provides care and support for children with life-limiting conditions and their families from across Devon.

CHSW delivers services including short breaks, specialist play, music therapy, activities for siblings, palliative and emergency care, end-of-life care, bereavement support and specialist medical care. ➤ Find out more about the work of Wooden Spoon in your local area at woodenspoon.org.uk/near-you

“The fantastic, generous donation we received has enabled us to bring our facilities completely up-to-date.” woodenspoon.org.uk

FUNDED PROJECT

Sport for all: Andy Irvine and Celine Sinclair, Chief Executive of The Yard, at the opening of the Adventure Play and Sensory Spaces Project

ADVENTUROUS ADDITION Five-figure donation enhances play provision for users of a super Scottish charity

A WHO Wooden Spoon Scotland

WHERE Edinburgh

WHAT The Yard’s Adventure Play and Sensory Spaces Project

HOW MUCH? More than £25,000

THEY SAID “It is great to see the superb facilities myself and I am sure the kids have great fun here.”

DVENTUROUS users of services run by a Scottish charity for young people with a disability have a host of new play opportunities thanks to the children’s charity of rugby working in harmony with Graham and Amy Allen.

Wooden Spoon Scotland provided more than £25,000 to allow the award-winning The Yard to complete the Adventure Play and Sensory Spaces Project to improve its indoor and outdoor facilities at its flagship centre in Edinburgh.

The generous grant, funded in part with money donated by the Allens, enabled The Yard to improve safety for those playing outdoors and enhance the amount of sensory equipment available to youngsters – in turn allowing the centre’s team to offer a wider range of activities.

The project was formally opened by former Scotland and British & Irish Lions full-back Andy Irvine, who unveiled a plaque in the playground and took time to meet staff, children and parents.

“I have been involved with Wooden Spoon for many years and have seen and heard about The Yard’s great work in the community,” explained Andy, who played for Heriot’s with great distinction for many years, earned 51 Scotland caps between 1972 and 1982 and went on three British & Irish Lions tours as a player between 1974 and 1980.

“It is great to be here to see the

superb facilities myself and I am sure the kids have great fun here.

“It is great to see groups working together to help the lives of youngsters.

“I would like to say huge thanks to Graham and Amy Allen who have worked alongside Wooden Spoon to make these upgrades a possibility.”

The Yard, which is in its 30th year, required improvements to its facilities after the success of its work saw attendance levels skyrocket. ➤ Find out more about Wooden Spoon Scotland by visiting wooden spoon.org.uk/region/scotland

“I would like to say huge thanks to Graham and Amy Allen who have worked alongside Wooden Spoon to make these upgrades a possibility.”

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Building knowledge: Kingswode Hoe pupils use toy blocks to show off their biological brilliance during the opening of the School’s new science classroom

ALL SET FOR SCIENCE

Youngsters at Colchester school make the most of a magnificent makeover

W WHO Wooden Spoon Eastern Counties

WHERE Kingswode Hoe School

WHAT Refurbished science room

HOW MUCH? £25,000

THEY SAID “The space will continue to have a really positive impact on teaching, learning and engagement in science – thank you again!”

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OODEN Spoon and an Essex school found the right chemistry when a donation from the children’s charity of rugby resulted in the transformation of a science room.

The Eastern Counties region’s assistance helped to fund the £25,000 makeover at Kingswode Hoe community day special school in Colchester.

Youngsters at the school, which caters for more than 120 pupils between the ages of five and 16 with moderate learning difficulties, are now able to explore science in a fit-for-purpose facility complete with specialist benches equipped with electrical sockets, a refurbished preparation area with two sinks, energy-efficient lighting and

non-slip flooring.

Eastern Counties Chairman Seamus Farrelly and Treasurer Alan Line headed to Colchester for an opening ceremony during which year ten pupils used building blocks to demonstrate their understanding of the human digestive system and school prefects served refreshments.

Alice Constantine, Head of School, said: “We were delighted to welcome representatives from Wooden Spoon along with Kingswode Hoe School and SEAX Trust governors to officially open our newly-refurbished science room.

“Pupils and staff are thrilled with

the new facility and we are so grateful for support from the charity.

“The space will continue to have a really positive impact on teaching, learning and engagement in science – thank you again!”

In addition to Wooden Spoon’s support, the £25,000 transformation was made possible through a £4,400 donation from Stoke by Nayland Golf Club, £500 of which came through Peter Jay in matched funding from Barclays Bank. ➤ Find out more about the work of Wooden Spoon in your local area at woodenspoon.org.uk/near-you

“Pupils and staff are thrilled with the new facility and we are so grateful for support from the charity.” woodenspoon.org.uk

FUNDED PROJECT

A cut above: Giles Hilton does the honours at the opening of Laleham Gap School’s new sensory play area Inset: A parent governor and a pupil check out one of the new bucket swings

STUDENTS’ SEAL OF APPROVAL Pupils’ proposals result in perfect place to play at Ramsgate school

T WHO Wooden Spoon Kent

WHERE Laleham Gap School, Ramsgate

WHAT Sensory play area

HOW MUCH? £8,000

THEY SAID “Going on it makes me feel as happy as a unicorn watching rainbows.”

HE expert opinions of youngsters at a Kent school have helped to shape an exciting new sensory play area made possible with the help of the county’s Wooden Spoon supporters.

Children at Ramsgate’s Laleham Gap School, which caters for those with autistic spectrum and speech and language disorders, were asked for their feedback ahead of work starting on the £30,000 project.

And their suggestions, along with the input of occupational therapists, resulted in a bespoke facility featuring a sensory timber trail and ropewalk, two large bucket swings, two slides and an enclosed trampoline. Laleham Gap’s latest addition was unveiled by Giles Hilton, chairman of Canterbury RFC, on behalf of Wooden Spoon Kent, which provided a substantial donation to make the play area a reality.

Speaking after the opening,

headteacher Les Milton said: “We are delighted by the new equipment. We love how much extra interaction there is between the children, and between staff and the children.

“I would like to give a massive, big thank you to all those who have contributed and it was lovely to welcome them to our grand opening.”

Wooden Spoon was joined by a host of other organisations in providing financial support for the play area, while representatives from the school played their part by organising events including summer fairs, quiz nights and coin drops at local supermarkets.

Staff also had to contend with the logistical challenges of dealing with the school’s move from Margate to Ramsgate and creating the space

required for the new equipment.

But initial feedback from the boys and girls making use of the kit suggests it was time and money well spent, with 13 per cent rating the play equipment “good” and 85 per cent describing it as “amazing”.

When asked for their opinion of the play area, which aims to improve children’s organisational and sensory skills, comments included “the trampoline was so wonderful I just couldn’t stop” and “going on it makes me feel as happy as a unicorn watching rainbows”. ➤ Find out more about the work of Wooden Spoon Kent by visiting woodenspoon.org.uk/region/kentsouth-east

“We love how much extra interaction there is between the children, and between staff and the children.”

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#FITTOGETHER www.wearecitycise.com 63 Wandsworth High Street, SW18 2PT

The way that you see fitness is changing, and CityCise is behind the drive to make this changed happen. CityCise has created a revolutionary concept around fitness and exercise, by combining both fitness and rugby together to create a, fun, inclusive environment, to inspire everyone in the community.

We’re more than just your normal gym, we are a global fitness community, bringing together rugby and fitness through the power of our Athletes. Giving a pathway for retiring professional rugby players, who want to carry on their athletic careers in a different context, whilst giving back to the community.

With revolutionary training regimes in the shape and form of 4 classes, City Fit, City Row, City Spin and Train with a Pro. The CityCise ethos revolves around combining fitness and rugby, whilst supporting the community. We have collaborated with Wooden Spoon, to enhance the rugby ethos even more. CityCise gyms will be run by enthused rugby professionals including, Harlequins and Fijian international player Netani Talei, Premiership Rugby Player Tamsin Barber, and England International player Fran Matthews, who will create the professional, rugby focused ethos that the gyms want to feel.

The new Gym concept wiill not only be working with professional Athletes, but it will also create a great retired player structure, for those that want to open up their next chapter in their sporting careers. Working heavily with the Wooden Spoon, we at CityCise will be giving back to charity and supporting the local communities that our gyms surround.

We will also be giving our first charity donation to Wooden Spoon.

Citifies is more than just a gym, it is creating a global platform for everyone to get involved in and a way to give back to the communities through rugby .

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Proud Supporter of

FUNDED PROJECT Welcome addition: Students and staff at Grangewood Special School welcomed Alex Lozowski for the grand opening of the Spoon Hill play area

KINGS OF THE HILL Primary pupils benefit from purpose-built play area

Y WHO Wooden Spoon London

WHERE Grangewood Special School, Eastcote

WHAT Spoon Hill play area

HOW MUCH? £20,000

THEY SAID “The facility is very clearly making a difference in the lives of some of the most vulnerable children in our society.”

OUNGSTERS at a Middlesex school have a colourful new place to play thanks to the generosity of Wooden Spoon London.

A donation of £20,000 from the children’s charity of rugby enabled Grangewood Special School, in Eastcote, to refurbish and enhance its play area, which was opened by Saracens and England star Alex Lozowski.

The playground, which has been named Spoon Hill, now provides a safe and stimulating area for the school’s primary-aged pupils who have severe learning and/or physical difficulties.

Committee member Debbie Knight, who visited Grangewood to see the new equipment in action, said: “There were a number of children playing, including one very brave soul who was walking very calmly around the top of

the high climbing frame.

“Another, Abdimalik, was being helped to walk – he was learning with the aim of walking to a physio who was leaving the school later in the week.

“The facility is very clearly making a difference in the lives of some of the most vulnerable children in our society, and Wooden Spoon – in contributing the funding – made it possible.”

Spoon Hill’s development was started by assistant headteacher Caroline Aplin, who is involved with the mini and youth rugby sides at Pinner RFC. She brought her needs to the

attention of David Hiles, the Club President and one-time Honorary Secretary of Wooden Spoon’s former Middlesex region, who drove the project with the funding agreement of the London region.

The playground complements Spoon Island, which was opened by Lawrence Dallaglio several years ago at nearby Coteford School.

The whole area, including the hill, is covered with bark embedded in a resin that gives it a bouncy feel and allows rain to percolate through. ➤ Find out more about Wooden Spoon London by visiting wooden spoon.org.uk/region/london/

“The playground, named Spoon Hill, now provides a safe and stimulating area for the school’s primary-aged pupils.”

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Leave a lasting legacy and change the future for children with disabilities

Wooden Spoon is a registered charity in England and Wales (Reg No: 326691) and in Scotland (Reg No: SC039247)

EXTRA TIME

A SOCIAL SERVICE

Eastern Counties chairman Séamus Farrelly explains how digitally-adept volunteers can make a difference to the children’s charity of rugby...

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OODEN Spoon’s supporters never have to search too hard for evidence of the immense impact made by the charity’s committees.

From sensory play areas to hydrotherapy pools and beyond, a steady stream of new projects improving the lives of young people with a disability or facing disadvantage spring up across the UK and Ireland each year.

But while the smiling youngsters gathered at official openings might grab the headlines, the new facilities and services they get to enjoy would not be possible without the dedication of our volunteers.

As an organisation with such a big reach, we rely on those who give up their time and expertise to support the children’s charity of rugby – particularly the men and women who form the committees responsible for planning projects on their own doorsteps.

A prime example of this benevolent band of brothers and sisters is Wooden Spoon Eastern Counties Chairman

“During the season the weekend’s aren’t my own, but when you see the results and the difference that’s made, it’s all worth it.”

Séamus Farrelly, who donates half of his time to spearhead the charity’s efforts in a region that encompasses Norfolk, Essex, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire.

His involvement in fantastic fundraisers such as 2017’s Club Together bike ride have helped to bring in nearly £100,000 over the last two years – and he has appealed for more people to get involved to swell the coffers further in the future.

In addition to assistance with allimportant membership, planning and financial services, he has particularly pointed to the need for social media-savvy supporters to help out with digital marketing and communications.

From penning Facebook posts about new projects to typing tweets or compiling update emails, volunteers can employ a host of modern methods to keep the wider world in touch with the latest news from Wooden Spoon.

“It is very important to get the message out online,” he told Spoonews. “We get a good response from our members, who

enjoy receiving our emails with updates on events and projects.”

While Séamus’ own contribution to Wooden Spoon is significant, he stressed that any time people can spare in volunteering for the children’s charity of rugby is greatly appreciated.

And he insists that new faces signing up to offer their services can play a pivotal role in developing the good work being done across our regions.

He explained: “During the season the weekends aren’t my own, but when you see the results and the difference that’s made, it’s all worth it. It can be quite a simple thing to do in terms of when and where people help us.

“It’s always positive to get [volunteers] who could look at what we do from a different perspective because I’m sure there are things that I’m missing.” ➤ Interested in volunteering for Wooden Spoon? Visit wooden spoon.org.uk/get-involved/ volunteer or email volunteer@ woodenspoon.org.uk Spring/Summer 2018

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really gives you a sense of perspective and you get to see how inspirational the children are.

There are a number of reasons why we are such loyal supporters for Wooden Spoon – and will continue to be so. First and foremost, the work they do is so vitally important – they make a difference to young people’s lives everyday through their projects and we feel very passionately about this. Secondly, it’s really important to us to be able to see where the funds we raise are being spent and Wooden Spoon provide us with this transparency. This really makes everyone involved with Rugbytots feel as though they’re making a direct difference to young people’s lives and undoubtedly leads to an increase in money raised. Finally, the individuals at Wooden Spoon are fantastic – we love working with them and we have a great relationship, which in turn makes fundraising easier for us.

CHILDREN’S CHAMPIONS

It may best be known for its innovative programme for introducing youngsters to the sport of rugby, but Rugbytots is also a super supporter of Wooden Spoon, having completed two mammoth cycle rides and raised more than £250,000 for the charity. We spoke to director David Hughan about his passion for the partnership...

The link between Rugbytots and Wooden Spoon was a natural fit.

We deliver rugby classes for young children and Wooden Spoon is the children’s charity of rugby.

Therefore, we wanted to use our business and classes as a vehicle for raising vital funds for this amazing charity.

Since partnering with Wooden Spoon, we have had a number of highlights. We have completed two extremely tough bike rides, one from Cardiff to London and

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another from Land’s End to London and through these have raised in excess of £250,000. Completing these challenges and raising these funds provides a real sense of achievement.

In addition to the fundraising, we’ve also been able to see first-hand where these funds are being spent. We’ve recently been involved with two projects which involved building outdoor spaces for children with disabilities.

Participating in these projects

We are constantly looking at new ways of growing our partnership and increasing the money we raise for Wooden Spoon. We normally do a big challenge every other year so we will be starting to plan for the 2019 event shortly. We also have a number of smaller fundraising activities planned throughout the year, these will mainly centre around our classes and encouraging our customers to support our fundraising.

Whilst Rugbytots is a rugby play programme, our classes focus on fun first and aim to build confidence in the children.

Rugby is gently introduced throughout our programme and children learn how to pass, kick, score a try, work as a team and more. As they progress, more rugby-specific skills are introduced, for example through the use of tags. Our programme benefits children in a number of ways, helping develop motor skills such as hand-eye coordination and social skills such as listening, sharing and confidence. www.rugbytots.co.uk woodenspoon.org.uk

EXTRA TIME

MARAUDER GOING FOR GOLD WOODEN Spoon Sevens player Philippa Tuttiett will captain her country at the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games in Australia.

The experienced international and Cardiff Blues skipper was named in Wales’ 12-player Sevens squad for the inaugural women’s tournament, which will be held at the 27,500-capacity Robina Stadium from 13th-15th April, as this issue of Spoonews went to press.

Philippa, who was named WRU Regional Player of the Year and Home Nations Touch Rugby Player of the Year in 2014, is a regular for the children’s charity of rugby’s O’Neills- and Securitas-sponsored representative side.

Team Wales face a tough test Down Under, having been drawn in a competitive Pool B alongside hosts Australia, favourites Fiji and England.

Helen Phillips, Chair of the Commonwealth Games Wales Board, said: “It’s excellent to have such a strong Team Wales squad heading to Australia for what will be the first ever women’s rugby Sevens tournament in the history of the Commonwealth Games.”

Prior to travelling to the Gold Coast, Phillipa will lead the squad at the Hong Kong Sevens as Wales Women seek to qualify for next year’s World Rugby Sevens Series.

KIT COLLEAGUES

Former teacher Peter Kennedy swapped classrooms for the RFU Development scheme and subsequently went on to coach with England Women, Exeter Chiefs, Worcester Warriors and Bristol. Now new business manager at O’Neills – the leading sportswear firm which supplies Wooden Spoon with its distinctive striped socks (page 35) – he tells Spoonews why his firm is delighted to commit kit to the children’s charity of rugby’s cause…

I’ve known about Wooden Spoon for a long time – I’ve had a tie and been a member for many years.

For my sins, I joined O’Neills having spent 15 years or so either working for the Rugby Union or for professional rugby clubs.

After I’d finished coaching the England women’s rugby team I was asked by Jai Purewal [former director of rugby and community investment at Wooden Spoon] to coach the charity’s women’s Sevens team and although I didn’t have the time to commit to the role, the relationship grew from there.

clubs, but we have about 150 Rugby Union clubs around the country as well.

We’re a strong supplier to that market and in Wooden Spoon you have a charity which is rugbybased and raising money for fantastic things for kids.

To be a part of that only speaks positively about O’Neills as a company.

For O’Neills, the appeal of supporting Wooden Spoon is pretty simple. It’s a cross-code charity – embracing both Union and League – and very rarely do you get the two together.

We’re very strong in Super League and probably one of the biggest suppliers of Rugby League

We have created a really, really good partnership that I think both parties are benefiting from. The growth of Wooden Spoon’s socks campaign is evidence of that.

We sold more than 4,000 pairs between September and Christmas last year and I don’t think there is another supplier

who could do that. There are plans in place to strengthen our commitment to the charity – the socks will soon come in special packaging at O’Neills’ cost and we are investing in extras like a silicone gripper that keeps the socks in place.

O’Neills also provides kit for the Wooden Spoon Sevens teams. It costs money for them to play and raise the profile of the charity around the UK and overseas and the last thing they want or need to be paying for is kit.

I have a great picture of both Wooden Spoon squads at the Kinsale Sevens (above) and all of the players look incredibly smart and happy.

That’s great marketing for us and we hope people will see Wooden Spoon playing in our kit and pick up the phone. www.oneills.com Spring/Summer 2018

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WINNING RECIPE FOR HUNGRY HEDONISTS Spoonews samples an appetising away day in picture postcard Welsh countryside that proves it is possible to have your cake and eat it...

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HEN the high point of a sporting away day proves to be whatever food is found within the ground, it is usually an indictment of the standard of rugby served to supporters rather than a ringing endorsement of the pedigree of pie purchased.

And given the choice from a matchday menu, most fans would favour the reverse – ordering a scintillating showdown over a heavenly halftime feed.

Such an option, however, is not on the table at Llangoed Hall, a country house hotel in the heart of the Welsh countryside where all things edible are an undeniable highlight thanks to the talents of its award-winning chef.

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Nick Brodie, who starred on the BBC’s Great British Menu last year, is unashamedly the hotel’s star player and has been pivotal to the rural retreat – situated a stone’s throw from the Brecon Beacons – earning three AA Rosettes, featuring in The Good Food Guide for two consecutive years and establishing itself as one of the publication’s top 50 UK restaurants.

Waving the culinary flag for Cymru, the head chef works closely with local suppliers and makes full use of the Hall’s 17 acres of gardens and parkland to grow and harvest ingredients for guests’ plates.

During the summer months, the expansive estate yields 95 per cent of the vegetables,

fruits and herbs needed by the kitchen, which means produce can be picked and prepared within minutes.

And as Spoonews discovered during its scouting mission on the eve of Wales’ 13th successive defeat to Australia last autumn, the rave reviews reverberating from the walls of the Wye Valley are based on consistency of performance as much as green credentials and culinary flair.

From breakfast, when visitors can select from chicken, duck or quail eggs freshly plucked from the Hall’s three busy egg houses, and enticing in-room dining choices to creative canapés and delectable dinner dishes,

woodenspoon.org.uk

ADVERTORIAL Picture: Llangoed Hall

Lord of a mouth-watering manor: Award-winning chef Nick Brodie has helped establish Llangoed Hall as a destination hotel

“The rave reviews reverberating from the walls of the Wye Valley are based on consistency of performance as much as green credentials and culinary flair.”

Llangoed lavishes memorable moments on those stepping through its 17th century doors.

Whether sampling predictably wonderful Welsh lamb, served with chantarelles on soft polenta, or melt-in-the-mouth monkfish accompanied by fermented garlic, gnocchi and coastal herbs, eating at this destination hotel is

an occasion to be savoured.

However, that is not to say that the other features of a stay at Llangoed are lacking in quality. Unlike a rugby fixture, there is no risk of the experience falling short of pre-arrival expectations. Originally converted into a luxury hotel by Sir Bernard Ashley in 1987 and still

home to some of wife Laura Ashley’s original wallpaper and furniture, the Edwardian country house boasts 23 character bedrooms and immerses its inhabitants into scenery more commonly seen on the sets of costume dramas.

With roaring fireplaces warming every corner and fine art adorning the wood-lined walls of the public areas, which include a snooker room-cum-library, it is certainly not hard to imagine yourself as lord or lady of this particular Jacobean Manor.

Adding to the air of aristocracy are the range of activities available to guests within several Barbour-and-boots strides of the Hall’s drive, which include lawn croquet, a maze, clay pigeon shooting, falconry, archery and fly fishing.

It is, however, to the hotel’s immense credit that the opulence of its outdoor pursuits and stately stature are softened by a relaxed, homely atmosphere. The Hall’s staff are friendly and attentive without being forever found in the corner of your eye and the absence of a reception desk and provision of an honesty bar temper any potential for pretension.

Add the beautiful backdrop of the Black Mountains into the mix and Llangoed Hall boasts an enviable recipe for a relaxing break.

In contrast to a day at the rugby, which may be marred by a mundane match, the majesty of this mid-Wales retreat is pleasing both on the eye and stomach. www.llangoedhall.co.uk

Picture: Llangoed Hall

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