As we welcome Leodiensian RUFC to Mallorie Park our reflection starts 40 years ago when the two sides faced off in the Yorkshire Shield final. On that occasion Ripon were led by our President Tim Wray and won a closely fought contest. The games between our clubs have always been competitive but played in the right spirit, and I have no reason to believe that today will be any different. Leos find themselves in the unfortunate position of fighting for Yorkshire 2 survival, this has been familiar territory for us in the past and we know that we will be in for a battle this afternoon.

When we reflect on the season as a whole, we know we have made progress as a group and had the best season for a decade. We want to end it well and I know the lads will want to finish the season off feeling rightly proud of their efforts. With a remarkable turnaround after being 17-0 down at half time, the victory at Barnsley last week shows our capability when we dig in.

It is the Presidents lunch today, when the patrons of the Club come together and enjoy a port fuelled chunter. I would like to thank all our Patrons for their fantastic support, not just financial, but in every way they help the Club. In all our plans to continue to move the Club forward, we never forget our history and culture and we will never lose the character that makes this a great club to be part of! The Patrons gently remind us of what is important to the soul of the Club.

I would like to start the round of thanks with all the players, coaches and team managers. It is you that put your bodies on the line and provide the entertainment that is the lifeblood of the Club. Whether they are adults or age grade we salute you.

I would wish to extensively thank all our volunteers, whose efforts are tireless and their relentless contribution is hugely appreciated by us. My thanks are extended to Mike and the bar/catering team that have kept us wonderfully lubricated and fed throughout the season!

In a Chunter of many thanks a shout goes out to the Ruckers, ex Ripon players, whom I am sure today will enjoy a glass of sherry and reminisce about ‘that 80 metre try’.

I hope all our members and visitors enjoy today. Please continue to support your Club and a reminder that the Annual General Meeting is on Wednesday 28th June 2017, have your say, it’s your Club after all!