On what I suspect is going to be a cold winter’s day it gives me great pleasure to extend a warm welcome to one and all today. This does of course include our opponents today Pontefract. Having been working overseas for the last few weeks I am really looking forward to some rugby today and it is great to enter the festive spirit with the First and Second teams both playing at home.

For those members who have kindly supported the Club Lunch organised by Tim Wray and Andy Proud thank you and I hope you enjoy a nice way to start your Saturday afternoon.
Last week we narrowly lost away to West Park Leeds despite the wizardry of Pat (Bob) Whitaker’s boot. The lads were not helped by a missing replacement and ironically an injury to prop Adam Newcombe early in the game. I hope Adam is okay and surrounding circumstances need to be addressed. The lads who played last week worked incredibly hard and particular credit goes to Gilly who stepped up to prop and took on the challenge; his flexibility and commitment sets an example for others to follow. We will need to be at our best in attack, defence and discipline to defeat table topping Pontefract today!

There are some social events planned on Saturday 23rd December with the Ripon Grammar School Old Ripon v New Ripon game at noon being played at the Club followed by the Second XV playing Harrogate
Pythons at home. The afternoon of rugby will be followed with the Christmas Jumper night! Come and join us for a glass of sherry and a great way to start Christmas. For those who cannot be there can I wish you a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year and may all your families enjoy a safe and peaceful festive time.