This week we welcome high flying Moortown RUFC to Mallorie Park. Having dug themselves out of a severe points deduction, Moortown have had a remarkable season and will provide a stern test for a much improved Ripon side. The hard won victory at Leos last time we played demonstrated the progress that Hassall’s warriors have made in 2015. That would have been a game I suspect we might have lost earlier in the season, however, with stronger individual and team performances, we showed some real character to lead on to victory. The win was dampened by a nasty injury to George Foster and we all wish him well and a speedy recovery.

Members may have noticed that our plans to refurbish the Club are displayed in the Clubhouse. We are committed to develop the Club and provide the best facilities for our members and the first phase that commences has been paid for by the Club with the support from the RFU with a £10,000 grant. We want to progress with phase two and three so fund raising ideas and offers of assistance are gratefully received. Have a look at the plans tell me what you think!

I would like to thank today’s sponsors HSBC for their support which is greatly appreciated by us. Let’s enjoy a good afternoon’s rugby and a few pints. We’d invite you to stay after the match in the club to watch England’s last game of the 6 Nations vs France.